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Chapter Text

Giyuu Tomioka's promotion to the rank of Hashira was a rather sombre business. The previous Hashira had died in a recent assignment, killed by a horde of demons that had overpowered her in an ambush. And so it was up to a 16 year old boy who was thoroughly unqualified for the position to take up the role.

It said quite a lot about how stretched the demon slayers were. The audacity of an unprepared, woefully unqualified child to become the water pillar. The ceremony had been conducted at the dead of night with only two people: Kagaya Ubuyashiki, the leader of the demon slayer corps, and of course, himself.

It was strange how only a few years ago, he would have strived for this position and would have been gleeful to accept it. Naive. Foolish. He was almost criminally foolish then, and perhaps he still was, considering he had accepted the rank in the end. It was an inevitable thing. Even if he also knew that he didn't deserve the position of a Hashira, he also knew that at the current moment he was the best in line for the role.

Still, he couldn't accept the position. Technically he was a pillar, but he wouldn't accept it truly until he had earnt himself that position.

But with the ghost of a pink haired heroic demon slayer trailing behind him, constantly reminding him of his inadequacy, perhaps he would never reach that point in life. Not until he died, which considering the average lifespan of a demon slayer, was presumably not very far away.

The previous Hashira had been skilled after all. But skill could only do so much when you risked your life every waking moment you had. Eventually, everyone's luck would run out. Just like the previous Hashira, just like the dozens of demon slayers he had personally known who had died on missions.

Just like a certain pink haired fool.

A fool that he would constantly have to chase no matter what. A fool he couldn't help but admire more than anything else.

Giyuu twitched. A wave of emotion flooded him. Nostalgia from old memories, sadness out of what he could never achieve, anger for the concept of death. Anger because his only confidant had the guile to get himself killed for the sake of swordsmen that wouldn't last a year anyway.

Giyuu, I know that these guys are probably gonna die later on in the field. But if I see them in danger and don't jump in to help, what kind of person would that make me?

He clenched his fists.

"A fool," he whispered. "It makes you a fool."

Because here he was, sitting in a room that was part of a house that was too big for him, with a blade that he had only been able to hone from the blood of those who had given their lives to save him, and with a position that someone else deserved. Someone who was sociable and heroic and confident. Someone who didn't need to be saved.

What kind of pillar would he be if he was always going to be the one being helped? If others would always be the ones sacrificing their lives for his?

The wind twisted and turned in the air, changing directions rapidly. It felt almost spiritual with its timing.

That night, Giyuu slept with his Haori on, his sword clutched to his side. It was his only link to the past, after all. His only link to the boy who frankly- should have been where he was now.

Fate was a funny little thing. The most skilled of warriors could be fated to die, and the most bumbling child could inevitably save the world. Similarly, Giyuu Tomioka had never been destined for greatness. Eventual happiness, perhaps. But the role of saving the world would always be left to another boy no matter what. A boy with a goal in his mind and a head as hard as steel.

It was inevitable. In one way or the other, Tanjiro Kamado would kill Muzan Kibutsuji. It was an event that was a constant no matter what would happen.

But sometimes, a river can indeed fluctuate. Throw a stone into a river and it ripples. Throw a bucketful of lava into it and it possibly flat out stops becoming a river altogether.

And as Giyuu Tomioka slept that night, the winds simply wouldn't stop changing direction.

It was a growl of a wolf that woke him up.

A wolf. Growling.

Giyuu's eyes snapped wide open, his vision instantly being filled with sunlight. Crap! Since when was I outside? Didn't I go to sleep inside of a house? And grass? Why do I feel grass under me? Why is there a wolf growling? Is this some sort of demon blood art?

Despite the blinding light that briefly killed his vision, he did his best to stand up. If a demon had attacked him and trapped him in a blood art while he was asleep, he was in danger. Large danger, and so were the rest of the demon slayer corps. Quickly unsheathing his sword, he honed his ears with practiced ease and flicked his eyes from left to right, trying to find the wolf that he had very clearly heard.

Now where- there it is!

The wolf- which despite sounding like the familiar animal sure didn't look like a wolf at all, was an alien looking creature with a skull mask and pitch black fur and bones protruding from its limbs. It also positively did not look like any sort of demon Giyuu had ever encountered in his life, despite giving off the same hostile aura.

Demons were green, with occasionally purple and white color schemes. Demons were definitely not pitch black with red and yellow skull masks. Demons also never had fur, at least to his personal experience. Maybe this is just something rare that I've never seen before?

That was when the other wolves joined in. Immediately after noticing the first wolf, Giyuu found himself surrounded on all sides by similar creatures. Alright, so it travels in packs. That's strange, then. I've seen tons of demons so far as a demon slayer. Why wouldn't I have encountered one that looks even remotely similar to this?

Before he could finish the thought, the wolves pounced.

Giyuu narrowed his eyes, thankful that he had mastered constant total concentration breathing a year before. It saved him a precious moment that he could use to otherwise think. But this time, it was a demon he had never encountered before in his life. It looked like an easy kill, but he would have to be careful.

Overconfidence was a demon slayer's most fatal enemy. And he was a Hashira, like it or not. He wouldn't get himself killed this easily out of arrogance.

The first wolf jumped. It was a straightforward, obvious attack that felt animalistic in the way that most lower demons did. From what I can tell so far, these creatures aren't intelligent. At best, they want to kill me and nothing more. They have no sense of actual tactics other than perhaps moving and attacking in a pack.

And in that case...

When the second wolf pounced a split second after Giyuu sidestepped the first wolf's attack, the swordsman twirled his blade towards his side, the point of the ninchirin sword soon finding itself embedded inside the head of the demonic seeming creature. Giyuu let out a sigh of relief. So these creatures were weak after all, it seemed. His sword sliced through them almost too easily, even easier than the lowest level demons.

That was good. For a brief moment, he had feared that the wolf would have some form of impenetrable skin. And now that he could confirm that the creatures were indeed easy to kill, he could dispatch the situation quickly and efficiently.

Water breathing, Second form! Water wheel!

With a flourish and a spin, Giyuu spun his blade horizontally, a trail of ocean blue water following the blade to create a perfect circle that expanded outwards, cutting everything in its path. The wheel of water bisected the wolves with deadly efficiency, the creatures dissipating after their collective death.

Just like a demon, Giyuu immediately thought. Except this felt oddly different in a way. Perhaps it was the color difference, but the way that these creatures dissipated didn't look like how other demons dissipated. And now that I think about it, many of these creatures are dead even though I didn't cut their necks... Giyuu felt his mind stir at that. Could this be a new, stranger breed of demons?

That wouldn't be good. If these were newer versions of demons created by Muzan, then even if these particular ones were weak, that would also mean that there were stronger ones out there. That meant more and more trouble for the demon slayer corps. More and more dead corpsmen.

This wasn't good. This wasn't good at all.

Giyuu sheathed his sword, making sure to position it so that he could draw it as quickly as possible if he needed it. And then, he looked towards the direction the first wolf had come from and sprinted forwards. He didn't have an exact plan yet, but in his defense, he wasn't sure how he was supposed to get out of whatever blood art this demon had created.

And he wasn't about to sit in an exposed clearing like a sitting duck waiting to get ambushed. Right now, keeping himself moving was the best idea that he had, and going in the direction of the first wolf seemed like the most natural choice available at the moment.

Total concentration breathing enhanced his physical abilities as he jumped from tree to tree, finding the forwards momentum he got from pushing off a faster alternative to running. On the way forward, he encountered a few more wolves and the occasional demonic bear, both of which he dispatched rather easily.

Still, there didn't seem to be an end in sight.

Giyuu stopped, landing on the floor in a small clearing.

Maybe I'm thinking of this too literally? This seems to be the obvious work of a blood demon art. So obviously the solution to these problems wouldn't be obvious. But what could I do? Stab my sword into the ground and try to break the illusion? Is there a hidden spot? Something I've missed, maybe?

He rubbed the back of his head in frustration. It was both deadly and extremely frustrating how varied and strange some blood demon arts could be. This one wasn't deadly to him so far, but it could soon turn extremely deadly, or even possibly trap him here for an indefinite amount of time. Is that even possible? There must be some way to get out of this, right?

That was when the scorpion showed up.

Damn his luck.

Crashing the biggest tree in the area as it raced towards his location, the giant scorpion demon, a demon with the same color scheme as the bear and the wolf, crawled towards him. Immediately, Giyuu could notice that this one was stronger. Much stronger, at least compared to the previous two.

He doubted that it would be too much of a challenge either, but he would still be careful. There was no room for mistakes when fighting a demon.

Quickly brandishing his sword, he raised it in a defensive stance, ready to block and counterattack whatever the demon would send his way. Considering this one looks like a scorpion, I'll probably have to watch out for its pincer and front arms. It might be poisonous too, so I'll have to be careful not to be hit.

Especially since the tip of its pincer was bright yellow. He would have to watch out for that part especially. Maybe if I wait for it to attack me first, then attack? I'll probably be able to cut off the pincer with no problem. It looks like it's the thinnest part of the beast.

And attack it did. With deadly speed that surprised even the water Hashira, the demonic creature stabbed forwards with its pincer, the deadly yellow tip flying towards his face. Giyuu responded immediately, jumping directly upwards and forwards to avoid the attack.

And now! Water breathing, first form! Water surface slash!

Mid air, he flipped his body forwards and prepared his sword before slicing downwards, a stream of water once again trailing his blade. Although the tail gave much more resistance than the wolf or the bear, the ninchirin blade tore through the creature's tail with deadly speed.

The creature stumbled backwards, howling in pain. Giyuu quickly took the opportunity that he had to finish off the creature, landing on the ground a decent distance away from the scorpion demon before employing water breathing technique to close the distance between him and the creature.

Ninth form: Splashing water flow!

The ninth form of water breathing was one that was fairly underused in combat in his opinion. While it was less... orthrodox compared to simply slicing off a demon's head, the technique was certainly useful, and he had found himself using it quite often in more drawn out fights and fights where he was clearly outnumbered.

Running speed and mobility made a huge difference.

Quickly closing the distance between the demon and himself, Giyuu jumped, ending the breathing technique as he landed on the beast's body. Usually I would aim for the neck, but considering this particular breed of monsters don't seem to require decapitation, I think an easier way to kill it would be to simply stab it in a vital area.

Once again pushing himself upwards with a jump and a flip, the water Hashira found himself staring down directly at the middle of the scorpion's head. Flourishing his sword once more, he aimed downwards.

Water breathing, eighth  form! Waterfall basin!

Water trailing the ninchirin blade one last time, Giyuu drove his ninchirin blade vertically down into the scorpion beast's head, the blade of the sword cutting through the armor and directly into the head. Immediately afterwards, the creature's head blew apart with an explosion of water, killing it instantly.

The demon slayer sheathed his blade as the monster dissipated. That was when he noticed a new figure, hiding in the trees. Is that... A person?

He gripped his sword, preparing to attack or defend at any given moment. These monsters were generally easier to dispatch than high level demons. But people? A humanoid shape indicated a demon demon, the type of demon he was almost intimately familiar with by now.

The figure emerged from the trees slowly but steadily, and Giyuu didn't take his hand off of his sword.

And then, the figure came into view completely, his arms raised.

"Might wanna put down the sword, kid. There's really no need to be angry, we're all fighting grimm around these parts, right?" said the man. The man who didn't look like a demon at all. In fact, he looked more like an ordinary person, albeit a bit overly lanky. Also, grimm? Are those the monsters that I found?

Giyuu didn't release his grip. He eyed the man carefully, trying to look for any slip-ups. It's not possible that demons can imitate actual humans inside their arts, right? Can they?

The uncertainty was more frustrating than ever.

"How do I know that you aren't a demon in disguise?" Giyuu carefully asked. The man looked at him with a curious expression.

"Demons? Like the monsters that your mom tells you about in fairy tales? They aren't real, kid. Only the grimm are." said the man. "Or is that what you call them in Mistral? Never been 'round that part of the world for too long just yet, so I dunno about the names and language there."

"Mistral?" Giyuu asked, before carefully proceeding with a, "How do I get out of this place? Are you trapped in here as well?"

"H- huh?"

"My name is... Sanju Takahashi," he lied, deciding to conceal his name just in case, "I am a... I am a mizunoto from the demon slayer corps. Considering your age, how long have you been trapped in this place?"

The man looked frustrated. "Look kid," he said, "I have no clue what the fuck you're talking about. My name's Qrow Branwen, I'm a huntsman from Vale, I came here on an assignment and found you passing by. I'm not trapped anywhere, and neither are you for that matter."

Giyuu narrowed his eyes.

"Then get me out of here," he ordered. "Tell me how to release myself from this demon art."

There was a high chance he was being led into a trap, but at the moment he had no spare options, and this was his best lead forward. He didn't like it, but he didn't see any other option. This man was the only person- possibly Demon- that was capable of speaking to him, after all.

The man sighed.

"All right then. You're weird and annoying as shit, but I'll lead you to the bullheads." said the man before he turned around and started walking onwards. He's showing his back to me? Could that be a sign that he's actually a human being? Or is he simply trying to get me to let my guard down?

He noticed the strange contraption stuck to the man's belt. It almost looked like a weapon, except it didn't seem to follow any conventional rule for a weapon at all. It didn't look like a sword, axe, bow, or anything for that matter. But it had bladed edges and a handle which Giyuu assumed was for gripping.

The two travelled in silence for a brief while, the man occasionally taking a drink out of a flask full of what Giyuu assumed was water.

Or at least, he hoped it was water.

A demon slayer drinking alcohol in the middle of a mission? Him especially?

It was pure insanity.

"Hey kid," Branwen called out, interrupting his thoughts. "We're here. Get into one of these bullheads and it'll take you to Patch. I don't have the time to deal with you right now, so look for a blonde guy that looks stupid."

Stepping out of the clearing, Giyuu saw... things that he couldn't quite understand. The "bullheads" that Branwen had talked about were clearly gigantic, metallic things, perched on the smooth grass. But why? Giyuu didn't quite understand the purpose of having such huge chunks of metal. Are they like... train carts? Is that how I can get out of this? I suppose that could work... metaphorically...

Sighing, he finally pushed down his paranoia to the best of his ability before stepping towards the giant metal carriage. Look for a dumb looking blonde man? That's... not really descriptive at all. What does a stupid man look like? What does a stupid blonde man look like...? What does this even have to do with getting out of here? Is this some kind of trap?

As he approached the carriage, the door opened automatically, making him stop in surprise. Gee, he thought, all this new technology stuff really is impressive. Maybe I should actually listen to Shinobu about all of this stuff, it could actually be pretty helpful... as irritating as she may be sometimes.

Inside the carriage were cushioned seats. Giyuu sat himself down in one, feeling rather awkward inside the carriage. Though how would it move? I don't see any train tracks anywhere, maybe it's hidden?

"Alright, we're taking off to Patch!" announced a voice from the front, making him jump in surprise. Alright, definitely talking to Shinobu. Aren't I supposed to be young or something? I should really probably keep up with this stuff...

And then, the carriage lifted upwards.

Giyuu snapped his eyes wide open, gazing out of the window as the ground and the surface became smaller and smaller. Flight? People can make machines that fly now? Since when? Surely an invention like this would be something that everyone should be aware of if it exists and is used like this, right?

Right?

But even stranger than the fact that he was flying inside a machine, which was something hard enough to beat on its own, was the sight that he was getting from inside of it. From the higher perspective he now had, he could very clearly see both the forest that he had woke up in, along with... everything else.

A city. A city with almost futuristic looking buildings, filled with people, and surrounded by tall walls that Giyuu suspected were built to keep out whatever monsters he had encountered in the forest. Grimm. That was what Branwen had called them. Grimm, not demons.

And to the left was the strangest sight of all. A tall, majestic looking full on castle. One that stood tall and clean and proud like a beacon of hope and pride inside the city.

Giyuu sunk into his seat, a sinking feeling inside his stomach.

He had the oddest, most terrifying thought that he wasn't in Japan anymore.

And even worse, he was now fairly sure that he wasn't inside a demon art either.

Chapter Text

"We're landing in Patch in about 5 minutes! Prepare for landing kid! The winds are pretty strong today so getting down from here might be just a bit rough!" exclaimed the pilot of the bullhead. Giyuu simply nodded, unsure what it meant to prepare for landing. Is there... some kind of thing I have to do? How do I prepare to land...? Maybe I should just...

Giyuu sighed, simply reclining back in his seat. Being a veteran demon slayer, he usually didn't find himself in situations where he was unsure of what to do. It was always relatively simple. If there was a demon, he would slice its head off. If there was a bed, he would sleep. If there was food, he would eat.

If there was someone ordering him to prepare for landing inside a strange, futuristic vehicle he didn't know was even possible? Then some problems started to arise. Think about this logically Giyuu. What would you do if you're up inside a giant carriage in the air, and you were about to go straight downwards? You obviously wouldn't want to get ejected out of the carrier, so you would probably hold on tight, right?

But that depended on the speed and the direction of the descent. Maybe there's some special procedure that I don't know about? Should I just... look around? Maybe there's some sort of manual? Everyone has a first time riding one of these things, right? I can't be the only one unfamiliar with procedures...

Darting his eyes left and right, he looked for any sort of instruction guide regarding vehicle procedures. Oh, there it is.

Leaning forward, he picked up the sheet of... paper? It didn't feel anything like the papers he had felt before. And yet it had words and paintings on it and it was very obviously not a canvas that artists typically used. Still, it felt awfully smooth and... strange. He couldn't quite put it into words but it wasn't normal paper for sure.

He glanced at the words on the paper, thankful that it was at least in symbols he could understand. Hm. Emergency landing position? Well, I don't think this is an emergency. But there's nothing else on the paper about preparing for landing, and surely if it's an emergency then it should be even safer for normal landings, right?

He stopped. Then glanced at the symbols again. Strange. I can understand this text, even if it's clearly not Japanese.

Eh, he thought. I guess it's just some side effect of whatever demon art, or whatever strange force put me in this situation. Maybe I'm in a dream? He pinched his cheeks, clearly feeling the slight pressure. No, definitely not a dream. So it's either a very impressive demon art or I've just been catapulted to the future, judging by all this strange technology.

Putting the manual back in the seat pocket, Giyuu made his best effort to copy the position illustrated in the instructions. Planting his feet firmly on the ground and crouching downwards with his hands stacked on top of each other on his Finally, he bent his head down so he was looking directly at the ground.

"Alright, beginning descent!" yelled the pilot. Giyuu sighed in relief. I did this position just in time. Hopefully I'm following procedures correctly, though considering I'm new to all of this...

The bullhead vehicle began to fly down. Giyuu slightly widened his eyes as the vehicle's interior went down along with it, giving him a strange, slightly nervous feeling in his stomach. Is this normal? The pilot seems to know what he's doing, but this feels just a bit-

The plane touched the ground once more. Giyuu thankfully stayed effortlessly plastered to his seat, his training as a demon slayer paying off. There was a lot of upwards force during that. Are people here just really heavy? Or is there some way that they're able to stick to the ground? Normally I would expect someone to jump up just a little bit judging by the force the vehicle had when it landed.

"Alright, we've arrived at Patch." said the pilot as he fiddled with the controls, seemingly concluding the last of the operations needed during a flight. Quickly afterwards, he turned back and looked at him. "You ok there, kid? Sorry if the landing was a bit rough, this is actually one of my first jobs as a bullhead- Huh?"

Giyuu glanced upwards. The pilot had the strangest look on his face. "Kid, what in the world are you doing?" asked the older man. "And why don't you have a seatbelt on?"

"Huh?" Giyuu asked, releasing his position and straightening his posture. "Sorry, this is my first time on a vehicle like this. I thought the manual said that this is the position you're supposed to maintain?" he apologized, trying to keep his tone as formal as possible. He was being serviced here after all, so it would be imprudent of him to not show respect.

"Kid, that's the emergency landing procedure. Usually you'll just be fine if your seatbelt's on." said the pilot.

"The seatbelt?" he asked.

"That thing behind your seat. You can tug on it and click it with the lock on your side."

Giyuu did as prompted, finding the black strap and tugging on it. Looking down, he found a strange contraption that seemed to be what the pilot was referencing. Pulling the seatbelt down, he brought it to the lock. It connected with a satisfying click sound and didn't release when he let go.

"See? Gee, shoulda asked me about all of this before you tried reading the emergency manual. Woulda made things much easier, don't ya think?"

The 16 year old Hashira could only let out a quiet, "Ah."

There were lots of people in Patch, it seemed. Definitely not as much as a large city in Japan, but it was at the very least the size of a large enough village. Overall, it was... a nice place. Giyuu had been to many villages personally before, but his assignments were almost always during nighttime. Most people were sleeping by then, so it wasn't like he got to meet too many people.

His own village, well, obviously he didn't have the greatest of memories. It had been home to him for his early years, but it left a bitter aftertaste in his mind. Him and his old neighborhood hadn't parted on the greatest of terms, and frankly he didn't have any ties he could call back on anyways.

Still, Patch was nice. The people seemed to wear their heart on their sleeves, and it overall brought a very familiar, cozy feeling despite the fact that he was a complete stranger. He had been cautious before, but he was now fairly confident that whatever situation he had landed himself into wasn't the work of a demon. A demon could replicate environments and obstacles and dangers, sure.

But trust? Family? Home? Those were concepts completely foreign to them. The close the creatures would ever come to understanding things like that were superficial at best. Giyuu was confident that they wouldn't be able to even come close to replicating the overall sense of friendliness that seemed to radiate from this place.

Still, while it was nice to simply observe the village, the downside to all of that was the fact that now he was having trouble looking for a stupid looking blonde man. Inwardly, he cursed Branwen for giving him what was frankly the most interpretive description to describe a man.

Right now he was looking for a human male that was one, blonde, two, goofy looking, and three, most likely an adult. Although frankly the second descriptor was questionable as well. But at least he could somewhat visualize someone goofy looking. Stupid looking on the other hand was... extremely vague. Not to mention slightly insulting. I really don't think whoever this person is would be pleased to be called stupid looking...

After wandering around the village for a few minutes, he decided he would try his luck at asking one of the villagers living there.

Picking out a red haired woman to the left of him, he walked up to her and lightly tapped her on the shoulder. She turned to him, and he cleared his throat.

"Would you happen to know a man named Qrow Branwen?" he asked. It'll probably be best to start with that. At least with Branwen I have a name. I don't think anyone would appreciate someone walking up to them and asking them where to find a stupid looking blonde man...

"Qrow? What's he up to this time?" asked the woman. Giyuu sighed in relief. So she knows him, thank goodness. It looks like I'll actually be able to find whoever this man is.

"Sorry if this sounds rude, but, he told me to find a erm..."

Giyuu coughed, slightly embarrassed.

"A stupid looking blonde man. Would you happen to know a man he would describe like that?"

The woman put a hand to her chin, looking slightly thoughtful for a moment before inhaling deeply slapping her palm over her forehead. Hard.

Giyuu blinked. Is... she ok?

"That stupid drunkard," whispered the woman. "Don't worry, kiddo. I know just who he's talking about. Follow me and I'll lead you to him. And don't you worry, I'll give him a good slapping for giving you all this trouble. I'm Maryland Bloom, professor of dust studies at Signal Academy. You don't look like any of my students, but you can call me Ms. Bloom anyway."

Giyuu bowed his head lightly in thanks. "Thank you. My name is Tomioka Giyuu," he said, wondering whether he was supposed to add something. He decided against it. Usually, introducing oneself as a demon slayer to a person involved with an incident was recommended. It was a title that helped people calm down. Helped people know they were safe. But here, the title of Demon Slayer meant just about as little as the title of Hashira, which naturally meant that it held zero meaning whatsoever.

"Well Giyuu, just follow me and you should be aaall fine."

In a way, he couldn't deny that it was nice to not feel that pressure on his shoulders, at least for a little while.

"Alright, we're here! The guy that Qrow told you about is someone named Taiyang Xiao Long. He lives over here." said Bloom. Giyuu nodded, giving her a bow of thanks before walking forwards. Immediately afterwards, he screeched to a halt and froze in place.

"Isn't it a bit..." he started.

"Huh? Got some more questions, kid?" Bloom asked.

"Wouldn't it be a bit disrespectful of me to simply stride down and enter his house?" Giyuu asked. Between the members of the corps, it was customary to never enter another's household unless one was invited or was a close friend of the owner of said house. Giyuu assumed that rule was the same for well... everyone. Right now, his position was that of a stranger, and he was about to simply stride into a man's house like nothing.

"Nah, Tai doesn't really mind. Dude's chill with pretty much everything, actually. And besides," explained Bloom, "Don't ya think Qrow would at least notify the man before throwing you off to his general direction?"

"No." Giyuu answered honestly. Was that a bit too blunt? She might be friends with him...

Thankfully, Bloom seemed to take it in good humor and snorted. "Actually yeah," she responded, nodding. "You might have a point there shortsack. Good instincts. Number one rule 'round Remnant is to never trust a Branwen to do anything that's considered common sense."

Shortsack?

Now that he looked at it, he was shorter than the redheaded woman. Actually, more than anything he was generally shorter than... lots of adults in Patch, though he wasn't so sure about the people his age. Maybe it's just that Patch has lots of tall people? he wondered. He had been considered of a decent height in Japan, standing over at least the majority of people. Here though, he felt rather dwarfed.

"You didn't notify him!?" Bloom's voice interrupted his thoughts. The red haired professor was now holding a strange, rectangular device over her ear, seemingly yelling at it. What... is she doing? I suppose that's another strange piece of technology that I'm completely unaware of?

"Qrow, you sent a teenage, black haired faunus kid that looks about as old as Ruby, with a sword that looks like that, striding over to Tai's house?" Bloom exclaimed before quickly putting a hand to her face and pinching her nose. "Wait, what? AND he has does shit with water? The hell does that have to do with anything?! Qrow, get off the damn booze!"

Giyuu heard a distinct, "I'll be fiiine, and besides, the kid can handle his own." followed by a, "I'm like 95% sure he's not actually Raven's kid. If he was, he would've attacked me by now, and he would also probably be in a hospital bed. Trust me, these things work out in the end. Just trust the kid!"

"Branwen, that better not be an excuse for getting drunk and forgetting to do something as basic as sending a text message."

Giyuu only heard a snarky laugh in return.

Sighing, Bloom pocketed her device. "Sorry kiddo, lemme just text Tai and then we can actually ditch you off. You got any idea why Qrow wanted to send you there?"

Giyuu shook his head. For all he knew, Taiyang was... a stupid looking blonde man. He wasn't sure why Qrow wanted him to head over to him, nor did he know who in the world Taiyang actually was. Actually, I'm kind of curious what he actually does look like. What kind of person looks... stupid...?

Although to be fair, considering everything that he knew about the man, he wasn't sure whether he could even trust Branwen's description.

Before Bloom could pull out her device once more though, a new voice interrupted the conversation. Giyuu turned towards the source of it to see a tall man with sandy blonde hair and asymmetrical clothing. Is that Taiyang? In that case, I'm not sure whether he would qualify as looking stupid...

"Hey there! You're the kid that Qrow told me to get, right? You have the sword that he said you would have!" said the man. Ah, so it is Taiyang, Giyuu mentally noted as the blonde man walked towards them. "Name's Taiyang Xiao Long, kid. I can take it from here, Mary. Thanks for your help."

"Wait, what!?" yelled the woman. "I didn't even notify yoouuu..." she trailed off, before scowling. "You... got a message from Qrow, right?"

Taiyang simply pulled out a device from his pocket, a similar looking one to Bloom's. He waved it around, showing the contents of the screen. "He sent me a heads-up a couple hours ago, yeah. Wait, were you arguing with Qrow on the phone just now?"

"You heard me?!"

"Well yeah," laughed Taiyang. "If you didn't notice by now, you're not exactly the most silent person on this island."

Bloom punched her forehead, taking deep breaths. "The next time I see that motherfu-"

"Oi, language! We got a kid here!" scolded Taiyang. "Anyways, thanks for all the help, Mary. Qrow's a bit hard sometimes, but he knows what he's doing... most of the time anyway. Get some chill time before you try and punch my brother in law, capiche?"

"Yeah, I think I might just do that. Good luck with the kid, Tai." said Bloom before she turned the other direction and walked away. What an odd woman...

After Bloom's figure had disappeared behind a street corner, Giyuu turned around and got a better look at the person Branwen had 'dumped' him onto. A bit sheepish looking, tall, has a built figure. Looks like he has plenty of fighting experience too, judging by the scars on the arms. Pretty weird sense of fashion, but...

"Definitely not stupid looking." he muttered to himself.

"Huh, what was that?" Taiyang asked, whipping around to face his direction. "I heard stupid looking." he said.

"Branwen told me to find a stupid looking blonde man. I was just saying that you don't look too stupid." Giyuu said. Taiyang paused, before the man let out a chortle.

"Yeah," he chuckled, "that sounds just like what Qrow would say. C'mon now, let's get you inside. Though you should probably tell me a little bit about yourself later on. Qrow doesn't usually dump random teenagers onto my house, so you must be someone worth his stuff, right?"

Giyuu shrugged before he followed the man over to the medium sized house surrounded by a grassy field.

So he really just laughed it off. I didn't mean to put it so bluntly like that, but he seemed to take it pretty well. They must be really close friends, huh? Although Taiyang did say that they were brothers in law, so that might have to do with something...

Eventually, the two reached a wooden door that Taiyang promptly pushed open. "By the way, my full name is Taiyang Xiao Long, but you can just call me Tai if you want. Mr. Xiao Long makes me feel old."

"I can do that." Giyuu agreed. Although to be fair, calling the older man Tai left a strange taste in his mouth. It almost felt as if though he would approach Kagaya Ubuyashiki... and call him something like Kags. Giyuu internally shuddered at the thought. That particular thought felt like at least ten degrees of wrong.

He decided that he would just try to avoid saying the man's name. Hopefully, nobody would notice.

Before Giyuu stepped into the house, he quickly took off his shoes. Do I just set them... on the ground? On the grass? I don't really see any place that I...

"Kid, why in the world are you taking off your shoes?" Taiyang's voice interrupted.

Giyuu stopped, before noticing that in fact, Taiyang had actually not taken off his own footwear. Quickly, Giyuu put his own shoes back on. Ah, do people... not take of their shoes before they enter the house in Patch? I suppose that's... really just another difference from what I'm used to. Although it does feel strange...

I guess I should probably explain myself at least, he thought. He pointed towards his shoes. "I've been running inside a forest. I don't think it would be appropriate to muddy the floor."

"Huh? Oh, so that's what Qrow meant when he said you lived under a rock, huh? Don't worry about that, basically every house in Remnant can't get muddy shoes at all." explained Taiyang. "Here, just step inside and you'll see what happens. I think you might find it pretty cool, actually."

Hesitantly, Giyuu stepped foot inside the house. Immediately, his shoes gained an ounce of weight, before said weight disappeared. Looking down, he noticed that the once muddy boots were now squeaky clean. His eyes widened. It... instantly cleaned the grime? That's truly impressive. Technology's seriously advanced beyond what I even imagined...

"Every house in Remnant has this?" he sputtered out, not quite able to keep the surprise from reaching his usually much more monotone voice.

Taiyang chuckled before nodding. "Yup. This is pretty old tech, actually. Some weird combination of water and air dust that lets it do this. Doesn't work for clothes, though. Only for smaller things like shoes."

"Ah," Giyuu nodded in acknowledgement once more. Taiyang laughed good naturedly.

"Never thought I'd see the day someone would look so impressed by a shoe cleaner. Anyways, you can step inside. There are some people excited to meet you." said Taiyang. Giyuu quickly nodded before hurriedly stepping inside the house fully. I wonder how this sort of technology could be used in combat applications... If instantly cleaning things are possible, then what would this sort of advancement do in terms of weapons or tools?

Giyuu trailed behind the man, still feeling slightly intrusive. The man seemed rather nonchalant about the entire ordeal, but he was well... he was practically an alien to these people. He was certainly one to this environment as well. Oh right, he mentioned something about dust?

"How does dust do something like that?" he hesitantly asked. Taiyang turned to him and briefly fell into thought. Afterwards, the man shrugged.

"Dunno," he said. "I'm not really a scientist if you couldn't tell. But just pour in some water and air dust when you need to and the device works pretty well."

"Water and air dust?" he asked, slightly baffled. Since when could... dust mites have elemental properties?

"Yup," Taiyang replied, popping the 'p.' "I can give you some books on dust later on if you want. Ruby never bothered to read'em save for the part about combat applications. You might be pretty interested, though."

"Thank you." Giyuu said, lightly bowing his head. "I don't want to give you too much of a hassle, but I would appreciate that."

Taiyang simply chuckled as he walked along. "Alright. Now you should probably stay back just a few steps. I don't think anything'll happen, but my girls are, erm... Energetic."

Giyuu cocked his head sideways in confusion. "Energetic?" he mumbled to himself. Energetic enough to be... dangerous? Well I suppose that if what I've seen of Patch so far is true, the people here have quite... striking personalities. I guess I could assume the same could be true about whoever Taiyang is referring to.

"DAD!" a new, high pitched voice interrupted the silence, snapping him out of his thoughts. Oh, whoever this is, at the very least she certainly does sound energetic. "You're back!"

Before Giyuu could even blink, a black and red mass slammed into the blonde man, making both of the two males in the room stumble backwards. Taiyang from the surprising new weight on his arm, and Giyuu from sheer surprise. The next thing he knew, there was a black haired girl practically attached to the blonde man, her hair reddening at the tips. Is that... a natural color?

"Heya Ruby," the man awkwardly said. "By the way, I brought the guy that Qrow was-"

Her eyes shifted to him. Silver eyes, he noticed. What a strange eye color.

He briefly considered waving a greeting. The girl promptly cut off that line of thought as she suddenly turned into a black and red mass once more and speeded towards him at breakneck speeds. Immediately, his years of experience fighting with superhuman monsters kicked in through his instincts. Years of combat intuition standing by his side, Giyuu quickly stepped lightly to the side, the girl- Ruby- speeding right past him and into the- Oh.

A loud bump echoed across the house, followed by an "Ow!"

Not a second later, Taiyang made a whistling noise, impressed.

Giyuu himself was quite lost on what to do. Hesitantly, he took a step towards the girl sheepishly rubbing the top of her head, a hand raised in apology. What... am I supposed to do here? Do I apologize? Should I explain myself? How would I phrase... anything, really?

He decided that an apology would be a semi-decent start. Nothing could go particularly wrong, right?

"I'm sorry," he said, quickly pausing afterwards. Should I... add anything to that?

The girl let out a bout of nervous laughter before she was pulled into a sudden headlock by one Taiyang Xiao Long. Giyuu paused, not sure what to make of that particular interaction. The girl slightly flailed around as the man gave her a light noogie on the head.

"What did I say about using your semblance in the house?" he scolded, although Giyuu could tell that the man at the very least seemed amused.

"I know, I'm sorry! But it's been ages since I've actually seen a new weapon..." the girl said sheepishly as she was released from the headlock. "Everyone else at signal is still making their own thing, so I err... May have gone just slightly more excited than usual?"

She laughed awkwardly. Giyuu couldn't help but look upon the scene with an amused smile tugging at his lips. Although it is strange. I don't think I've ever met someone with such a large enthusiasm for weapons out of all things...

"Where's Yang by the way?" Taiayang asked.

"She's out in Vale right now. She said she'd come back before dinner!" Ruby explained, before turning to Giyuu's direction once more. "Can I see your sword?" she blurted.

"Alright, you two have fun with your weapons. I'm gonna go cook dinner, alright?" Taiyang's voice echoed as he retreated further into the house, leaving the two teenagers by themselves.

Giyuu shrugged. I... suppose there wouldn't be too much harm in letting her see it, he thought. Unhooking his Nichirin Blade from his belt, he handed it over to the enthusiastic girl. With a pull of effort, she unsheathed the blue tinted sword, observing it inch by inch. She looks awfully focused.

"Is the blue part paint?" the girl suddenly asked. "It has such a cool looking tint to it, but you usually don't paint the blade of a sword, so..."

Giyuu shook his head. "It's made out of something called Nichirin," he explained. "Where I come from, it's known as the only metal in the world that can change color. Unfortunately, it's found only one place in the world."

"Oooh," Ruby nodded rather sagely. "Does it turn into a gun?"

"A gun?" he asked. Guns were considered a relatively new invention in Japan. They were used mostly only in the national military and nowhere else. A sword that could turn into a gun? That was something outside of even his wildest imaginations. Except now apparently where it was seemingly possible.

He shook his head. "It's just a sword."

The girl pouted in disappointment.

Giyuu blinked. Did I... do something wrong?

He raised a hand in apology before the girl's eyes suddenly snapped open wide and she started flailing her arms around in panic, sword in hand. Giyuu quickly dodged a swipe from his own sword as the girl immediately stopped and withdrew her hands and put them to her side.

"OhgodI'msosorrythatprobablysoundedsupermeanIdidn'tmeantoreactsoharshlyIswearitsstillprettycoolandohgodIalmoststabbedyouandohgodoh-"

Giyuu blinked again.

The girl stopped.

An awkward silence descended between the two.

After a solid five seconds, Giyuu decided that first and foremost, it would probably be best to avoid being possibly stabbed.

"If it's ok with you, I'd like my sword back please." he said, a slight sheepishness creeping into his voice.

Moments later, his weapon was roughly shoved back into his hands again and the girl yelled a very loud, "I'm sorry!" before she turned into a speeding black and red mass once again and bolted the other way, leaving a trail of red rose petals in her path.

This was followed by Taiyang shouting, "RUBY! SEMBLANCE!" once more.

Giyuu stood still, not sure just what he was now supposed to do.

After pondering for a brief moment, he decided that taking a step forward was probably a good way to go, and continued from there.

Dinner at the Xiao Long household was awkward, and Giyuu suspected that he was the cause for said awkwardness. Taiyang was as chipper as always, but Ruby would guiltily stare down at the ground for reasons unknown every time he made eye contact with her, and Giyuu himself was someone who preferred not to speak unless prompted.

"Yang," who he assumed was Taiyang's other daughter, was nowhere to be found, and had only called the household telling them that she would be late.

"Soo Giyuu!" Taiyang suddenly announced. "Tell us a little bit about yourself. Qrow really didn't fill me in on the details, ya know?"

Giyuu blinked in curiosity. "What about myself would you like to know?"

"Well erm, where are you from?"

Giyuu stopped to think. How would he phrase his theory that he was quite possibly either from far back in the past, trapped in a demon art, or just a straight up alien? "My home is very far away. Unfortunately I don't believe I can go back to it, at least at the moment."

If he gained the opportunity, he would go back. But he was smart enough to know when and when not to try and obsessively control and plan over something that he had zero idea of. He simply hoped that the remaining Demon Slayers would do well without him. After all, it's not like we're particularly close to beating Muzan anyway.

When he had decided to be a demon slayer, he had very well known that what he was signing up for was essentially a glorified suicide. Still, he had seen the demons first hand. He had lost a friend and a sister to one. Back then, and possibly even now, it had really been the only path forward for him.

"Oh, so you're from outside of the big continents?" Taiyang asked, his interest showing.

Giyuu nodded. "I'm from far away." he answered, telling a half-truth. After all, it technically wasn't wrong. Just... misleading. He felt bad that he would be fooling around with the truth with his only host and a rather friendly one at that, but it wasn't like he himself knew what had occurred to him anyway.

"How old are you?"

"I recently turned sixteen."

The questions went on from there, with Taiyang asking simple, impersonal questions and Giyuu providing him with answers. Answers regarding tidbits of his past, things like his favorite color, favorite food, and so on. It was... not a bad feeling. He honestly couldn't remember the last time he had talked for so long, although he did have to admit that his host was much more talkative compared to the regular demon slayer.

And also, he wasn't irritating. That probably helped too.

The food was also not bad at all. It was a strange, western looking dish he had never tasted before, but he didn't mind the taste at all. In fact, he had been rather impressed with his host. Ever since Giyuu had devoted an embarrassing number of hours into learning how to cook a single dish of Salmon Daikon, he had garnered a new respect for people who could confidently cook.

At about the end of dinner, Taiyang's device- which he called a scroll- started to ring. Giyuu now knew that when that happened, it meant that someone was calling. (Ah, the wonders of technology)

The blonde man picked it up, and his face lit up in surprise. "Yang? Is that you calling?"

"Yeah so um..." a new voice echoed. "I maaay or may not have gotten myself into a tiny bit of-"

A crashing noise reverbed from the scroll's speakers. Giyuu raised an eyebrow in confusion. Was that a... crash? Did something explode? Considering how Ruby is, it might just be a normal thing for this girl to create... explosions, I suppose. But should... Should I be concerned about this?

"Yeah! So as you can see, or HEAR!" she yelled at the end before a sickening crunch sound echoed from the speakers. "I MAY HAVE GOTTEN MYSELF INTO JUST A BIT OF A PINCH RIGHT NOW! JUST TO-" -another crash- "LET YOU KNOW, DAD! I'M GONNA HANG UP NOW! MIGHT BE A LITTLE LAAAATE!"

Before Taiyang could respond, the scroll beeped to signal that the call was over. In response, the man simply sighed, putting a hand over his face. On the other side, Ruby was blushing cherry red, looking down at the ground in what seemed like embarrassment. Giyuu blinked again.

"Is..." he asked hesitantly. "this normal?"

Taiyang sighed. "Not really. She does have a bit of an explosive streak, but..."

"Ah." Giyuu nodded in understanding.

Pocketing the scroll, Taiyang paced around the house briefly, muttering to himself. Immediately afterwards, he put his hands on top of the table and sat down once more, pinching his nose in frustration. "Alright, Ruby. Sorry to dump this onto you right now, but this might as well be a good opportunity. You and Giyuu can go to Vale and pick up Yang. I... think I know where she's gonna be by the time you arrive."

"In prison?" Giyuu suggested before he closed his mouth shut quickly.

Taiyang sighed.

"Yeah."

Chapter Text

Despite having somewhat adjusted to his new surroundings, (Which he now knew as a land named Remnant, a land that had continents that had no similarities whatsoever to that of Earth) things about Remnant seemed to still surprise him. For one, the fact that bullheads could be used as easily as carriages in Tokyo. Although it was one thing for air travel to exist, it was another thing for it to be so... so common. So easily used and accessible. Something about how people lived in this world, how technology impacted lifestyle and culture, was extremely baffling at times.

And the people? Even more so.

Giyuu sat in silence as the bullhead flew threw the air, occasionally glancing at his only companion. Since the sun had set long ago, the bullhead was empty save for the two of them, and somehow the silence was even more palpable than ever. Giyuu sighed in his seat. He wasn't sure what exactly he had done to earn Ruby Rose's ire, but it was slowly getting ever so slightly uncomfortable.

Actually, why is she so skittish? She seemed rather enthusiastic when she was talking about the sword. Is it that she feels guilty for... something? I'm not sure what in the world she would feel bad about, though. Maybe the thing about the almost-stabbing?

He lightly tapped her shoulder. The girl slightly jumped in surprise before she turned to face him. "Huh?! D- Do you wanna say something? NotthatIdon'twantyoutosayanythingofcourse, god that really came out wrong and I'm probably just diggingmyselfadeeperanddeeper-"

"Do you dislike me?" Giyuu phrased the question bluntly.

Ruby's eyes snapped open. "H- Huh? No! You're super cool with your dark and edgy brooding and your sword! It's like you're straight out of a movie!"

Giyuu's eyes twitched.

I guess that was meant to be a compliment, but... Dark and edgy brooding?

He sighed. Oh well, at least she isn't one more person for Shinobu to inevitably use to tease me. "Why do you look like you're scared of me?" he asked.

"Well, I kinda called your weapon lame? Itwasanaccident I swear! I didn't mean to call your sword boring just because itdoesn'thaveagun like everyotherweapononRemnant, it actually looks pretty cool!" she exclaimed. "I thought you were like, super mad at me or something?"

His eyes twitched again. I feel like I'm about to face a truth that I don't want to confront...

Still, he stepped beyond the boundary and asked the question. "Why... did you think I was mad at you?"

"Oh!" Ruby's face lit up this time, and Giyuu fought down a flinch. It's coming, isn't it... "Because you have this super broody look, so I just thought you were angry or something! And I did kind of insult you, almost stab you then run away, so connect the dots, and well... Here we are, I guess!"

"Ah," Giyuu echoed. "That's just... my normal face." he said. "I'm not mad at you or anything. Don't worry."

"Well I guess I already knew that by dinnertime, but all this weird stuff happened and I'm kind of not the best at making friends, so..." Ruby muttered, her voice trailing off towards the end. Giyuu chuckled amusedly. At least this entire thing is done and over with. I wouldn't want to head to a prison with someone who can't stop looking at the floor...

"Don't worry," he said. "I don't think people like me either."

"I know, right? I swear, Yang makes it look so easy, but-" the girl stopped, her face scrunching up as she took the time to process what he had actually said. "Did... I just get insulted?"

Giyuu hummed in response.

It turned out that in fact- Yang wasn't actually in Prison.

After the police officer, a man with blue hair that somehow managed to look natural, returned with the report of whether a 'YANG XIAO LONG' had been to the prison in the last 24 hours, Ruby had quickly taken her phone out and had called Taiyang for assistance. Giyuu hadn't been able to hear the conversation fully since Taiyang didn't, well... shout out all of his answers. Still, he had a basic idea of what the man had said.

"Alright, Operation find Yang is a failure!" Ruby exclaimed. Inside the police office. The police office with many officers who were now staring at her, some of them amused and some of them less so. Ruby immediately flushed in embarrassment before flipping on a bright red hood and exiting the building.

Giyuu bowed in what he hoped indicated an apology before he left as well.

When he caught up to Ruby, the younger girl was pacing back and forth, a dust of pink still plastered onto her face. The girl immediately groaned. "I can't believe I actually did that! I just embarrassed myself in front of the entire police department because I forgot that I was still in the building!"

The water hashira considered raising a finger to point out just how ridiculous that statement sounded before simply deciding against it. Things like this are probably gonna become commonplace if I'm staying here for any length of time. I should probably just get used to it or something.

"ANYWAY!" Ruby continued, "We still need to find Yang! And dad doesn't even know where she is! All he said was that she'd probably be in some kinda club, and I have no idea where any clubs in Vale are! Also, clubs are kinda scary? At least, that's what Yang told me..."

"Clubs?" Giyuu asked. Like... the weapon?

"Yeah!" Ruby exclaimed. "Like clubs! With music, drinks, alcohol, and lots of dancing and fighting! Or at least that's what Yang says they are. I've never actually been to one myself, so I'm not reaaally too sure."

It was truly astonishing how this girl could go from dead set embarrassment to... whatever this was in such a short time. I suppose some people are just born with lots of energy, Giyuu thought, before a small lightbulb turned on inside his head. Music, alcohol and dancing and fighting? Then a club is probably something like a bar, and I don't think that would be too hard to find.

"Has your sister never told you about what places she liked to visit?" he asked. Ruby shook her head.

"Nope! She thought that I would try and sneak into a club if she told me location of one," the girl pouted. Ah, so she's that kind of sister...

"Have you tried just... calling her?" he suggested. Ruby shook her head again.

"She doesn't pick up. I think her battery's dead. I don't think she's in too much danger or anything. I mean, she's Yang. She's even more dangerous than half of Vale's criminals!"

"Mm."

Giyuu scrunched his face in thought. What am I doing? I know absolutely nothing about this place beyond the fact that the buildings look impressive. I'm completely unequipped to deal with this situation. Still, there must be some way for us to find her, right?

"Oh!" Ruby suddenly yelled. "Now that I think about it, she did mention a few times about a place called Junior's. But I don't really have any idea where that is!"

"Why not ask?" Giyuu offered. Ruby nodded eagerly before the girl suddenly disappeared into god knows where, leaving a new trail of rose petals behind. I'm... fairly sure that people wouldn't appreciate it if you asked around by speeding into them, but I guess I can't really say anything in that regard either.

Maybe I should start asking around as well.

Turning to the side but staying in a relatively small area so that Ruby could find him again later, (considering he frankly didn't want to get lost in a city like this) Giyuu tapped the shoulder of a stranger. It was a wide, tall man with a top hat and a ponytail, who looked... well, if he was going to put it honestly, rather unsightly.

He supposed that the man looked like the average person who would frequently visit bars- or clubs, whatever you called them. I hope he doesn't accidentally get insulted when I ask him, though.

"Would you happen to know a club called Junior's?" Giyuu asked. The man scrunched up his face in thought for a brief moment before looking him in the eyes again.

"I think I've been there once or twice," he said. "But what kinda business does a kid like you have around that place? You look way too young to be drinking. Go back to school or something and piss off. Junior's ain't a place for stupid pretty boys like you."

Before Giyuu could respond, Ruby suddenly dashed back to him, her face in glee. "Giyuu! I found the location! Apparently it's somewhere around-"

"Oi! Kid, don't you even dare bring a fuckin' middle schooler into that place. Junior doesn't serve stupid kids like you two, and both of you are frankly idiots if-"

Giyuu then decided to take a more pragmatic approach to get rid of the man who was now getting slightly irritating. Putting a hand to his sword, he prepared to draw it. Not to kill the man of course, but a show of strength went a long way to work on lower level demons. He assumed that showing the man that he wasn't just some... pretty boy, would help convince him to, well... leave.

Now that I think about it, that might not be the best idea. This is a human, not a demon. I shouldn't just solve every problem by pointing a sword at it.

But before he could think of another option, something crashed onto the ground beside him, making a rather obviously loud noise. Giyuu immediately turned to look at just what it was, only to see his current companion. His current companion who happened to be... holding...

Oh god who gave this girl a giant scythe?

"We can handle ourselves! See? He has his awesome sword and I have Crescent Rose! I'm not some helpless middle schooler, mister!" Ruby exclaimed, holding the scythe proudly. Where did she even pull that thing from? It wasn't anywhere on her and I don't think anyone could even hide that thing, much less someone as short as her...

"Ruby," Giyuu started. "Please put down the giant scythe."

Actually now that I think about it, wouldn't that just-

"Alright!" Ruby exclaimed as she seemingly activated a switch and the scythe shrunk into a much smaller red contraption that she proceeded to hook back onto her belt. Ah, so the weapon shrinks. Of course it does. Because why wouldn't the giant scythe just shrink to a fraction of it's size?

Giyuu sighed. He supposed he owed the man some form of an apology now.

"Sorry," he began. "My companion here is... slightly hyperactive. Thank you for the information."

The man quickly scrambled away, not saying a word. Giyuu sighed, the beginnings of a headache beginning to boil in his head. This is frankly beginning to become way more trouble than it's worth. Why am I even here again? I should just try and wake up from this dream, or something. Go and kill some more demons.

But unfortunately, this was all too real and he had no way of getting back home. At least, to his current knowledge.

"Uhhhhh," Ruby's voice called out rather meekly. Huh? Is she somehow back to... whatever her state was before the bullhead? "I proobably went to far just now, didn't I? That guy seemed... pretty angry?"

"Ah," Giyuu echoed. I would think terrified would be a better fit than angry. "You're fine. Just try to avoid taking out the giant scythe in public next time." he said. And strangely enough, he meant it. He was learning rather quickly now that it was astonishingly hard to keep any sort of real grudge against the girl, despite how she was... certainly a personality. He was certainly not the happiest camper at the moment, but that was less directed at her and more at the situation itself.

The hooded girl brightened once more. "Alright then!" Ruby said before she pointed towards his right. "Now, let's go find Yang! No more distractions!"

Yang Xiao Long was currently not in the best of moods.

Going against some weak, petty criminals in a club was supposed to be easy. As much as she didn't like bragging too badly about it, she was in fact someone who was the best ranked in her class in Signal, and by a decent margin as well. She wasn't a professional huntsman sure, but she wasn't supposed to be captured in a damn nightclub out of all things.

Which was why this stupid umbrella girl popping out of absolutely nowhere was annoying. Very annoying. She knew that eventually she'd meet her match in combat, but she hadn't ever expected some random criminal to completely dominate her in a fight the way that Ice Cream girl had.

Every punch that Yang pulled off, the girl dodged effortlessly. Every move that Yang made, the girl predicted ages ahead of time. Ice Cream girl was in total control of the flow of the fight, and for the love of all things pure Yang just couldn't get a damn hit on her.

Plus, that umbrella was sharp. And painful. It made her seriously pissed off.

And she had activated her semblance too! Usually when she was pushed to that point, it indicated that she would take the win easily. But nope! Umbrella girl was still dodging all of her hits by the tiniest margin, and it gave Yang a migraine by the end of the fight.

So now here she was, tied up onto a chair. In Junior's club. Fucking Junior's.

"Hey!" she called out. "Umbrella girl!"

Umbrella girl turned towards her and cocked her head, her eyebrows raising ever so slightly in mocking. Yang fumed, struggling against the ropes one more time. "Why the fuck won't you just talk?! Open your stupid mouth so we can have a freaking conversation!"

Umbrella girl put a hand to her mouth and snickered. Or at least that was what it looked like, considering no sound actually came out of her mouth. Seriously, what the hell is this girl? Some kind of mime? I swear to god, when I get out of these ropes, I'm gonna-

Before Yang could finish her line of thought, Umbrella girl suddenly disappeared from where she was before and reappeared right in front of Yang, her face leaning in way too close for comfort with an expression that was both flirtatious and mocking at the same time. Yang felt the extremely strong urge to punch her in the face.

She was so close. It was so easy. All she needed to do was get off the stupid ropes around her arms, activate Ember Cecilia and absolutely fucking drill her fist into the girl's face.

Since when did Junior have a henchman like that anyway? All she had come here for was some info on her mom. She hadn't actually meant to beat up most of the club and cause major property damage! Why was umbrella girl even here? Why was she fighting for Junior? He was a criminal!

She sighed in frustration, slumping against the chair. I might have really screwed up with this, huh?

"Man," Junior gushed, "Thank god my favorite customer was here while you were about to trash this damn place, huh? How does it feel, blondie? To be on the opposite end of the fight this time? You don't get to keep coming in here, beating up our henchmen, causing tons of property damage while asking for my damn assistance!"

Yang sputtered out in incredulity. "Since when did you have a moral high horse?! You're a criminal! You extort people for money! Don't come all gung-ho on me for beating your goons up!" she yelled, before tuning her voice with the most potent sarcasm possible. "Oh no! Just what will I do? I sabotaged someone part of the criminal underground! What a horrible person I am!"

Junior growled, before suddenly chortling. "Yeah, you know what? You're right! But you know what else you are? Tied up in a chair, completely at loss! Man, Neo really is a lifesaver, huh? Try not to mess with places that people like going to, blondie." he said. "Now, for all the shit you've caused me, I think I know some seriously painful ways that you can pay me back!"

"Screw you!" Yang yelled. I'm gonna get out of these stupid ropes, and you're gonna get pummeled all the way to fucking Mistral!"

Before Junior could retort back, a sudden crashing noise echoed from outside the club. Everyone inside the club briefly took a moment to completely stop what they were doing just then and there. Yang raised an eyebrow in curiosity, and she- to her great glee- could see Junior slightly tense up.

"I swear to gods," he whispered. "If someone else comes in here trying to trash my damn clu-"

The door to the club exploded. Well, not exploded per say, but it certainly looked that way to her. The hinges of the metal door came flying off, the frame of the gate slowly falling down to the floor. Outside said door was a man- no, a boy that Yang had never seen before in her life.

Straight black hair, some of the sharpest eyes Yang had ever seen, an asymmetrical jacket-thing, and what looked like a one edged sword sheathed to his side. Yang quickly noted down the stranger's details in her head. Is he some sort of huntsman? I don't think I've ever seen or heard of him before... Wait no, he looks younger than me! He can't be a huntsman!

And right behind him, a new figure emerged. A figure that Yang frankly hadn't expected to see. Hoped not to see.

"...Ruby?" she whimpered out.

"Yang?" her younger sister asked, her voice painfully innocent. "Why are you tied to a chair?"

Despite the fact that Ruby had received an address, finding Junior's club was, well... hard. Giyuu was a complete stranger to Vale, but he had gone to the capital of Japan at least a few times in his life, and since he had always been hunting demons, he had gone into the underground part of the city multiple times as well.

Not physically underground of course, but the underground. The part of the city that was infested with crime and filth. The part of the city that hosted thieves, burglars, extortionists and killers. And naturally, the part of the city that was always an absolute nightmare to navigate.

Vale's underground was the same way. Narrow, twisting and turning streets made it harder and harder to not get lost in the maze that was the underground. And finding a specific address in a place where there was practically zero organization in the way places were numbered or named? It was damn near impossible. Ruby had gotten misdirected at least half a dozen times so far, and he expected her to get lost at least a dozen more times before they found the club.

There were also the obvious criminals. It was about the same with Vale as it was with Japan, with shady looking merchants, people carrying a varied number of weapons, and the worst part of all, thin children dressed in rags, running around with bags in their hands.

It was frustrating. Rage inducing. The fact that even with seemingly hundreds of years worth of technological advancements compared to Japan, things like that were still persistent. Sure, there was a lot less of it compared to what he had expected, but it still existed.

A detail that was strange though, was the fact that a big portion of the people there wore a single, widespread garb. A black jumpsuit covered with a silver set of armor, coupled along with a mask that resembled the monsters that Giyuu had encountered when he had first landed in Remnant.

And the rest of the people, most of them at least, had at least one distinct animal trait. Whether it was cat or dog or monkey, it was rather undeniable that a big portion of the underworld of Vale were people with anthropomorphic traits. Giyuu had never seen someone with cat ears in his life before, and frankly he hadn't expected to see any in his lifetime. But just as always, Remnant surprised him again. Though this time, he wasn't sure whether it was a good or a bad thing. He was leaning more towards the latter.

He wondered if animal traits were considered some kind of disability in Remnant. Similar to how ugly children were considered less by a village in Japan.

He noted said things inside his mind as he walked along, taking in the part of Vale that hit much closer to home, and in a bad way. A very bad way. In a way, he could still tell that the underground of Vale was still at least part of Vale. There were things like color choices and voices and accents that made that clear. Still, it was also clear that it was not the same as the majority of the city.

He felt a light tapping at his arm as he walked along the street, turning to his right to see Ruby looking at a brightly lit store with a neon pink signpost depicting an apple. A food store? Does she seriously want to buy food here? Isn't there a better time and place for something like that?

"I have some money to spare." said the girl with a strange confidence in her voice that confused him. "Follow me, Giyuu!... or not. I don't really wanna go in there alone but if-"

Giyuu nodded before shrugging, trying his best not to be judgmental. I guess it's part of being her age. I would say that this isn't the time and place to get something to eat or drink, but well...

The girl visibly brightened up. "Thanks!" she said before walking towards the store, Giyuu trailing behind her and watching out for possible dangers. They hadn't encountered any explicitly threatening situations so far, but it never hurt to be careful, especially in a place that frankly- he had no idea of just how dangerous it was.

A few minutes later, Ruby had checked out with a bag filled with apples, oranges and an assortment of other fruits, thanking the accountant as she left. Giyuu trailed along, not quite sure what he was witnessing. That's... way too much food for any one person to eat. What in the world is she doing? Did Taiyang ask her to buy groceries or something? I suppose that would make sense. But oh well, at least she seems more... chipper now?

Giyuu noted that while Ruby hadn't actually eaten anything, she did seem more... energized, in a way. She had looked clearly uncomfortable throughout the walk, and while she still had an aura of discomfort, it felt less heavy. The girl was less skittish, and had more of the confidence that she had shown when she had cracked the pavement with a giant scythe.

She was also faster. A detail he was only noticing now.

As Ruby turned a corner and disappeared, Giyuu's eyes widened and he quickened his pace to catch up. While the girl was only maybe a dozen meters in front of him, it was enough to scream against his instincts as a demon slayer. Anytime was a possible danger. Anywhere beyond his sight was a possible threat that was ready to take a life.

Laying a hand on his sword and cautiously narrowing his eyes, Giyuu turned around the same corner Ruby had, sighing in relief as he found the girl in his line of sight again.

Said girl was also holding out an apple to a child they had passed moments ago.

Giyuu paused, albeit for only a brief moment. Oh, he noted. So that's what she was buying food for.

Feeling a strange emotion in his stomach that was an odd mixture of frustration and wonder, he resumed his walking as he made his way towards the girl and the child. Gee, I never even thought that she was actually buying food for others. Damn it, don't tell me Shinobu was actually right when she called me a cynical old geezer...

As the child scrambled away, Ruby turned towards him again before her eyes widened. "Oh!" she exclaimed, before rubbing the backside of her head sheepishly. "Sorry about that, ehehe... I know that we should probably find Yang quickly, but it's hard to just look at them and do nothing, you know?"

There are lots of people who would disagree with you on that, Giyuu immediately thought before sighing. Right. Not Japan. Different land, different people... probably. Considering that a place like this even exists, it might just be that she's an exception. Still...

"You're fine." he ended up saying for the second time that day. "You're doing a good thing."

"I also accidentally spent all of our allowance, though..." Ruby noted absentmindedly. "Dad told me to buy you some new clothes! He said that you looked ancient or something."

Giyuu found himself holding his haori, not sure whether he was supposed to feel offended or not. Ancient? That's... one way to put it, I guess.

Ruby giggled. "I think it looks pretty cool, though! You're like a character from one of those martial arts movies that Yang loves!"

Giyuu simply nodded his head, not quite understanding. "We should probably look for your sister now." he said. Ruby's eyes widened again.

"Oh, right! We should probably start on that again, yeah." she agreed, before suddenly looking upwards and gasping. "Wait, doesn't that sign say Junior's?"

Giyuu looked upwards and nodded. Indeed, the sign did say Junior's. The building was one of the less run down ones that were part of the underground, and it was surrounded by two burly looking men in dark grey tuxedo suits, both of them holding up thick metal sticks. Do bars usually have guards?

"Well, I guess we found the place on accident?" Ruby noted before she took her bag of fruits and put it in the black and red backpack she had brought before she started to walk towards the building, Giyuu quickly following behind her, carefully laying a hand on the handle of his sword. Just in case the guards end up becoming hostile against us. The man in Vale did imply that Junior's was fairly dangerous, and the location is in the underground part of Vale as well.

"Hey!" Ruby began. "Have you seen a tall blonde girl here? She's my sister and we're looking for her."

Giyuu wondered what would happen if the two of them said no. Now that I think about it, we're only here because Ruby remembered this as the only club Yang told her about. What if Yang isn't here? Would we have to start a search all over again? Would we even be able to find her before the day is over?

They had come here because it was the only lead they had, but could it have been simply a wild goose chase?

The man grumbled, snapping Giyuu out of his thoughts. Immediately sensing the hostility radiating from him, the water hashira felt like slapping his forehead. Damn it. This is gonna turn bad, isn't it? I can tell already. Hopefully these guards are all muscle and no brain, or else it'll be hard to fight them without using some of my more lethal forms...

He waited for the right moment. For a brief few seconds, the two guards whispered to one another, and Giyuu had frankly no idea what the two were talking about. However immediately afterwards, one of the guards raised their metal sticks up in the air in a position that clearly indicated he was about to hit something.

Giyuu sprang to action immediately. Pushing himself off of the ground, he closed the distance between him and the guard with a single, powerful stride, his sword raised upwards and a sea blue trail of water spiraling around the blue tinted blade, poised to strike.

Eighth form, waterfall basin!

Swinging the blade with just the right amount of strength to make his strike a blunt impact instead of a bisecting slice, he crashed the explosion of water onto the first guard's head, aiming straight for a place on the back of the head that he had knew would cause a concussion.

The man crumbled to the ground, instantly unconscious. Quickly moving onto the next guard, Giyuu spun around and gathered momentum before he crashed a second waterfall basin into the guard, this time into the guard's chest. The man went flying backwards as he crashed into the wall behind him, knocked out as well.

He then sheathed his sword, sighing in relief. Frankly, controlling his swings to hit bluntly was not something he was used to considering his style of combat was meant to be good at beheading demonic creatures with skin as hard as steel. It had taken him a fair bit of effort to make sure that he wasn't causing fatal injuries. He didn't want to kill human beings, after all. Now what to do for that door? It looks metal, and I think I can slice through it if I try, but I have no idea how thick it is...

But before he could properly think on what to do next, a familiar voice interrupted his stream of thought.

"That. Was. Awesome!" Ruby cried out as she sped towards him. "You went all fwoosh, and bang and boom!" she said as she imitated what he guessed were martial arts movements. He sheepishly scratched the back of his head. He had gotten... some varied reactions to his techniques throughout the years, but most of them had been varied degrees of gratitude or relief over being rescued from a bloodthirsty demon.

Not... whatever this was.

"Anyway," Ruby said, quickly dashing to the side once more. "I can get us through that door! Since you handled the guards, it's time for me to show you just what me and my baby can do!"

Her what?

Pulling out the contraption he now knew was her giant scythe, Ruby pulled on one of the pieces that made up the piece of machinery. Is she turning it into a scythe again? But what would a scythe do to a door? It's not really the best at making blunt impacts either...

And then, the contraption expanded turned into something that wasn't a scythe at all. It had the same color scheme and design, but it was a completely different contraption. What is that? Wait, it has a trigger, a handle, and a... Is that a gun? A giant scythe and a gun?

He distinctly remembered the girl pouting in disappointment when he had revealed that his sword was nothing but, well... a sword. I guess at least I know what she means now. But would a gun really get through that door? If anything, it would be even more harmless, right?

And then, a loud sound echoed across the alleyway as the girl shot a streak of green into the door. It seemed... completely fine. Although the air is certainly thicker. Is that some sort of smoke bullet? A smoke... something? I suppose that wouldn't be too unrealistic considering what I've seen so far. Still, it's certainly not very useful against the door.

Immediately afterwards, Ruby shot something else. This time, a red streak flew straight towards the door, embedding itself through the green bullet.

And the door exploded. Not enough that it was completely shattered, but its edges were frayed and burnt down, and it seemed to wobble in place. What? How? Giyuu looked towards Ruby, his eyes slightly widened from the sight. The girl smiled confidently, radiating the same energy she had shown when she had first pulled out the scythe.

"Air dust and fire dust!" she said. "I heard from my science teacher that fire explodes when you combine it with oxygen. So if you put them together? They go kaboom!"

Ah, Giyuu noted. He hadn't had the time to read the book on dust that Taiyang had given him yet, but at the very least he had a gist of what it did. So just two bullets and someone could create an explosion? Actually, just join two specks of dust together and you could make a miniature one. That's... dangerous, but impressive.

"Now, try pushing down the door! It'll probably swing right down!" Ruby said, before adding more meekly, "I'm gonna stay back a bit since you look scarier than me."

Giyuu couldn't help but snort at that particular comment.

Still, he led the way in front as the duo approached the door leading to Junior's club. Laying a single hand on it, he pushed forward, immediately drawing it back as the door fell forward, completely detached from its hinges. As the gate fell, the doorway revealed a messed up, broken down club that housed many unconscious bodies dressed similarly to the guards at the front, along with a fancily dressed bearded man and a girl with... pink and brown hair split right down the middle.

And in the furthest edge of the room, was a girl with striking purple eyes and long, golden hair and a fashion style that practically cemented that she was Taiyang's daughter. Ruby quickly revealed herself from behind him, walking towards the entrance of the club. The blonde girl's eyes widened.

"...Ruby?" asked Yang Xiao Long.

"Yang?" Ruby immediately replied. "Why are you tied to a chair?"

Giyuu sighed before putting a hand on his sword once more.

This was gonna get messy.

Chapter Text

At the current moment, Junior Xiong's bar was in total and utter chaos. Property damage was getting steadily... no, a better word would be exponentially higher, henchmen were getting beaten up pathetically easily, and a blonde girl was slowly starting to get on Neo's nerves.

It was a shame too, she rather liked this place, and blondie was kinda pretty. Helluva temper though, certainly not Neo's type. She preferred someone suave, and gentlemanly and with strong charisma. The more she looked at blondie, the only thing really strong about her was her fists. And from what she could see of the henchmen, god damn she was strong. At least for her age.

She took one more sip of the cocktail she had ordered, taking in the sweet, fruity scents of the alcoholic beverage. Mm. This was why she liked Junior's. His service was about as good as horse shit, and frankly the place was almost always obnoxiously noisy with the worst songs playing on the jukebox, but holy moly could the man make a drink.

If she had a voice, she would have moaned right there and then. Instead, she settled for a simple pleased smile. Committing various crimes across Vale with Roman was one thing, and she liked it, but even then a lady like her needed some well deserved free time. And Junior's was perfect for that.

If the man wasn't too busy scamming out idiots out of their money and dodging taxes, Neo was confident he would have made it by now as a professional bartender. She was thankful that he didn't, though. Because she could actually visit him, and more importantly- drink the heavenly drinks he made, without being cautious of law enforcement.

It turned out that Valean police officers went to bars and clubs quite a lot after all. Neo smiled at the prospect that she and Roman were most likely responsible for at least half of the recent headaches that the police office went through. It was a source of great pride for her.

Something flew her way. Neo slid to the side and let the henchman crash into the bar, lamenting the bottles that were destroyed by the collision.

Oh well. Junior could buy new ones anyway. That man was filthy rich and frankly deserved to lose some money. It was unfair! She and Roman had to risk their lives to conduct perfect heists, building up skills and talents to fight for the money they stole- ahem, earned. All Junior had to do was just go up to some stupid idiot and talk his way into that sweet, sweet moolah.

Ah, the injustices of the world.

Speaking of Junior losing his money, it looked like blondie was pretty much destroying a good tiny fraction of his net worth. Nothing that Junior couldn't recover from, of course. But still Neo was sure that the man was lamenting the loss of both his henchmen and bar.

She briefly considered whether she should try and stop the girl. As much as it was entertaining to see Junior panicking, it was also getting awfully noisy. That was annoying. Neo didn't like it.

"Neo!" Junior yelled from a distance. "Fucking do something about her! This is the third time! The third. FUCKING. TIME she's done this! You like my bar, right? You like hanging out here!"

Neo cocked her head at him. The message was clear. She was a criminal herself, after all. She wasn't one to do things for free, she needed at least some form of compensation. Junior's eyes snapped wide open in recognition, but before he could speak, a chair flew towards his face. The man rolled away, the piece of furniture impacting a shelf instead.

"I'LL GIVE YOU DISCOUNTS!" the man yelled, getting increasingly desperate. "HALF PRICE! NO, FULL PRICE! YOU CAN JUST COME HERE FOR FREE WHENEVER YOU WANT! JUST GET RID OF HER!"

Ah, that was better. And it was an even better deal than she had expected! She had thought that the man would give her a wad of cash or something, but nope! Full price discounts? She would make sure to get her fair share out of that particular deal. Don't worry Junior, I'll be coming here so often that you're gonna end up losing your net worth.

Now, she had a certain blonde girl that she needed to deal with. Hm, blondie's strong. Punches pretty hard too. Eh, I can probably handle her.

Stretching her limbs and cracking her joints, Neo stood up and took out her umbrella, a sharp bladed tip emerging from the end of the tool-turned-weapon. She smirked.

Blondie didn't stand a chance.

Later

"Yang?" Ruby asked. "Why are you tied to a chair?"

Giyuu's hand travelled towards his sword as the fancily dressed man looked at him with a raging fire in his eyes and the strange haired woman stood up, brandishing... an umbrella? Is that supposed to look threatening? Although I suppose it could be a tactical ruse of sorts. She could be extremely deadly, for all I know. It's better not to let my guard down.

"Ruby!" yelled Yang Xiao Long. "Get out of here! What were you even thinking trying to come here!?"

"You're the one that came here in the first place!" Ruby argued back. "And you're tied to a chair! So clearly someone here isn't thinking too well!... Which is you! If- If that wasn't clear enough! You're the one that isn't thinking well, Yang! Right, Giyuu?"

Giyuu felt the urge to slap his forehead. And maybe jump off a cliff afterwards. Similarly, the fancily dressed man groaned, while umbrella girl looked nothing but amused. I was wrong. She doesn't have any sense of time and place after all. Seriously, why are they having an argument here out of all places?

And then, the fancily dressed man exploded.

"Oh for fucks sake!" yelled the man, who he presumed was Junior himself. "I have had ENOUGH of my fucking BAR getting TRASHED by stupid TEENAGERS! First blondie, and now you're about to take out that sword! If you're gonna have a fight, follow the GOD DAMN LAW and take it OUTSIDE of my private property!"

Xiao Long cackled. "Oh, now you wanna follow the law? What were you saying just a moment ago~ something about painful ways I could pay you back? How 'bout you list some of those methods, buddy? Tell us all about how you wanna torture a poor 17 year old girl!"

"Shut the hell up blondie!"

And then Xiao Long had the audacity to stick out her tongue at him before smirking. "What? You gonna do something to me if I don't?"

Giyuu honest to god wasn't sure whether he was incredibly impressed or incredibly annoyed with the girl. On one hand, she was taking her rather... precarious situation with an admirable amount of... courage? At the very least, the girl wasn't afraid. On the other hand, the girl also made him want to scream and jump off a cliff. There was a time and place for jokes and quips. This... was about as far as one could get from said time and place.

"Yang! Can you find some way to get out of there?" Ruby asked before pulling out her own weapon, putting a hand on the mechanism that Giyuu assumed would turn it into its scythe form. Thank god. At least she's somewhat aware that this is... well, most likely gonna lead to a fight. Or maybe I'm the one who's overreacting?

"No!" yelled Xiao Long. "I've been trying to get out of these stupid ropes for ages!"

Giyuu's grip on his sword tightened.

"Alright, you know what? I'm starting to get tired of this back and forth." Junior said. "Neo! I'll give both you and Roman free drink privileges if you make sure that these kids never mess with this bar again! I don't care what you do! Just make sure they never show their stupid faces again!"

The effect was immediate. Not waiting a split second, Giyuu drew his sword and the strange haired girl- Neo, raised her umbrella and charged, poised to strike. Giyuu immediately noticed that she was fast. Faster than... well, most, if not all opponents he had faced before.

"Ruby!" he yelled. "Free Yang with your scythe!"

"On it!" the girl affirmed as she sped towards Yang's direction, past Neo. Immediately, the umbrella wielding girl's attention was redirected from him to Ruby. No, I have to focus her attention onto me. Junior doesn't look like much of a fighter, but this girl... I couldn't tell at first, but it's obvious that she's dangerous behind that innocent looking facade.

As much as he was sure Ruby could handle herself in combat considering what little she had shown previously, she was a 15 year old girl who- at least to his knowledge- didn't have the same caliber and degree of life and death fighting experience that he did.

The odds of her winning against umbrella girl were not odds he was willing to risk. Frankly, he wasn't sure if he could win against her.

But he didn't need to win. All he needed to do was keep her attention for long enough for Ruby to get past Junior- who didn't seem like the most capable fighter- and free Yang. Then they would be able to gain an advantage in numbers. The umbrella girl... she wouldn't be strong enough to resist a 3 person assault, right? Would she have that level of skill?

Either way, this was looking like their best way forward for now.

Water breathing, ninth form! Splashing water flow!

His movement becoming splashes of water, he allowed the technique to increase his momentum as he ran straight towards Neo just as the girl poised her weapon to strike. Ah, so the umbrella is her weapon. A hidden sharp edge, maybe? I should probably stay on the defensive.

Closing the distance between him and her quickly, Giyuu raised his sword, starting off with a move he enjoyed using often as a first form of offense. Not only was it a useful move against demons, it was also effective against humans- at least those not familiar with the water breathing techniques.

Fourth form, improvised! Striking tide, turbulent!

Twisting his body to build momentum, Giyuu unleashed a series of consecutive slashes that would theoretically slash off multiple limbs if not blocked. Still, Neo quickly turned around and reacted to the attack, her umbrella turning into a blur as it took in the impact of the consecutive slices. Giyuu lamented none of his attacks connecting.

Still, he had managed to surprise her and push her back, and if her expression was anything to go upon, the girl was at the very least genuinely surprised. I need to take up this advantage as much as I can, Giyuu thought. He had a feeling that if he didn't push his first advantage and keep the element of surprise, things would turn around for the worst later on.

From the corner of his eye, he noted Ruby wielding her scythe against Junior, who was fighting with... a briefcase?

Neo's umbrella swung down at him faster than he could blink. She's fast! How did she recover so quickly? he thought as he jumped out of the way, the weapon harmlessly swinging through open air. Immediately afterwards, he pushed forward off of the ground and swung his sword horizontally, the girl blocking his strike with her umbrella.

For a while, the attack-defend pattern continued. Giyuu struck and Neo dodged or blocked. Neo struck and Giyuu did the same. Neither of them could get a hit on one another... at least so far. Giyuu hadn't made use of all of his forms, and he didn't intend to. Not yet. First, he needed to have an idea of the girl's abilities.

Which was why it was extremely frustrating that the girl just wouldn't relent. The girl wasn't going full on out. She had a hidden card, an ace up her sleeve. He could see that just by her confidence in how she fought. Even when he almost got a hit on her, the girl's expression had the same suave smile.

The battle was as physical as it was psychological. He was waiting for the girl to reveal her cards, and it was obvious that the girl was waiting for him to reveal his. Unfortunately, it seemed like he was slowly being beaten back. He was able to keep up the back and forth so far, but he wasn't sure up till how long. He was slowly tiring, hard to notice as it was.

Meanwhile, the girl was barely even sweating.

Then, Neo charged again, this time stabbing her umbrella forward with blinding speed. I can't react in time for that, Giyuu immediately noted. Now, do I let myself get stabbed in the shoulder? Or do I play my cards before this girl does? There was one form of water breathing that was a perfect counter to the girl's stab. And yet...

Oh well... It's not like my goal was to win against her on my own anyway.

He pulled back his sword, preparing the fastest technique available to him.

Water breathing, seventh form! Piercing rain drop!

And he drove his sword forward, straight into the trajectory of the razor sharp tip of the umbrella. The two blades met in mid air, a shield of watery ripples protecting him from the pierce and negating the girl's momentum. Once again, Neo's face lit up in brief surprise.

That's my opportunity!

Twisting his body once more, he slashed diagonally, his blade clearly contacting the girl's torso and slashing through... What?

The girl was completely fine. The girl. Was. Completely fine. There was no wound, no blood, not even a tear on her shirt. There was only a pink flash of light that had briefly appeared where his sword had touched her, the light disappearing almost instantly. What in the world? Is this what she's been holding back? Does she have some form of invulnerability?

The girl smirked.

That was when he realized that in his surprise, he had hesitated.

Before he could blink, the girl slashed at him with her umbrella with speeds she had never shown before. Giyuu's eyes widened as he desperately blocked the deadly flurry that approached his way, sparks ringing through the air as his nichirin sword clashed with the umbrella's sharp tip.

What in the world?

The umbrella struck his sword once more and he slid back from the impact. She hits hard too! Much harder than I expected!

He glanced at Ruby, who was still engaged in conflict with Junior, albeit one that was going in her favor from what he could see. Meanwhile, he could tell now. The girl had been holding back her cards massively. At the moment he was completely and utterly outclassed.

Still, I have some tricks left in my sleeve. If I try this, my best chance at winning is gonna be exposed... Is it worth it? No, of course it is. I can't stand a chance without using the tenth form. Right now, my goal isn't to win but to delay her as much as possible to give Yang the chance to join in.

Gripping his sword tightly, he shifted his breathing once more.

Water breathing, tenth form! Constant flux!

Pushing off of the ground, he jumped forward at speeds faster than he had ever gone previously. Around his sword, a river-like stream of water gathered to create a dragon shaped construct that followed the path of his blade. I can only maintain this form for a few minutes with my current stamina... Ruby better free her sister quickly.

He swung his sword horizontally, and the girl raised her umbrella to block. With the added momentum and strength of form ten, Giyuu knocked the defense aside and struck the girl's chest once more, the pink flash of light re-appearing to protect her. Before Neo could recover, he slashed again, only for the girl to twist her body and dodge the slash.

Before he knew it, an umbrella's sharp blade flew towards him. He let it hit his arm as he twisted sideways, the sharp edge of the tip making a light wound. Once again, the girl looked surprised. Another chance.

Twisting around once more, he built up momentum and swung his sword towards the girl's neck, only for it to be blocked with a much more solid defense this time around. Once more, he fell into the same loop of attack and defend, except this time he was actually getting in hits and so was she.

And while he was tiring faster, the girl was also tiring this time as well. Sweat beaded at the tips of her hair and her movements were much less playful and much more deadly. The umbrella aimed for his joints. His neck, his knees and his elbows. They were strikes that were meant to incapacitate and kill.

She doesn't know that I can't hold this for long! Right now at least mentally, I hold the advantage!

Then suddenly, a crash echoed across the room. Giyuu noticed the collapsed form of Junior in the corner of his eye and immediately jumped backwards, stopping constant flux. From the back of the room was now a standing golden haired girl who looked positively pissed.

But now, he wasn't quite sure if Ruby and Yang were capable of beating the girl. He was only able to keep up with her- and even then he hadn't been actually winning, the stalemate had been closer to Neo's favor- for a few minutes while using constant flux. And from what he was able to tell, Yang had been beaten fairly easily by the umbrella wielding girl.

As of now, he suspected he would only be able to keep up constant flux for less than a minute. The more he thought about it, the odds were... less than stellar. Could her shield be a limited thing? In that case, how much of it did I take out already? Maybe if they could get enough hits on her...

"Alright, fucking ice cream bitch! Get ready to get pummeled!" Yang yelled, immediately charging into the fight.

In response however, Neo didn't fight back at all. Instead, the girl merely made a soundless gesture that indicated giggling before snapping her fingers and simply disappearing into the air. Giyuu's eyes widened once more as his eyes darted around, the umbrella wielding girl nowhere to be found.

Yang's punch contacted with nothing but mid air. For a brief moment, the girl paused and looked around, before her face twisted into an expression of intense anger. "What?" she yelled. "Oi! Fucking get back! Seriously? That's it? She's just gone with a stupid poof?"

The blonde girl's pupils briefly turned red before she slumped down onto the ground. "God, I was so looking forward to punching her face as well..." she trailed off. "And you, Ruby! What were you even thinking? You could have seriously gotten killed today!"

"So could have you!" Ruby argued back.

Yang opened her mouth, seemingly to retort, before she closed it back again. "You know what?" she said. "You're right. Boy, I really screwed up, didn't I?" She put her hands to her face, groaning out loud. "Gods, I didn't expect that ice cream girl to be here. Sorry, Ruby, that I lashed out like that. Just... that girl, she was crazy strong. I couldn't even get a single freaking hit on her before she tied me to a damn chair!"

Ruby nodded. "I know Yang, but we're all fine now, and that's what's important."

The girl slumped. "It turned out ok in the end, but what if she'd gotten you, you know? You could have seriously... Ugh, crap. You know what? You're right, I'm being an idiot. I'm just glad both of us are safe." she said, before trapping the younger girl in a one armed hug and giving her a noogie, all the while smiling coyishly. "Don't worry your older sis like that again, alright?" she playfully added.

"Yang!" Ruby complained, hitting the older girl's arms in protest. "Your muscles are way too strong!"

Yang immediately let the girl go, her expression morphing into one that looked rather sheepish compared to the boyish grin from before. "Oops! Sorry about that, Rubes. Old habits, ya know?" she laughed out, before turning to face him. "Oh yeah, you!" she exclaimed, pointing at him.

"Who the flip are you?" she yelled. Giyuu cocked his head in curiosity.

"...Flip?" he muttered out. Considering her word choice before, a word like that was... well, not quite what he had expected. Yang immediately flushed in embarrassment, seemingly understanding the question. She rubbed the back of her neck sheepishly.

"I try not to swear around Ruby, ya know? Some bad stuff comes outta my mouth when I'm angry, but well..." she trailed off. "Wait, you still haven't answered the question!"

Before Giyuu could answer, Ruby interjected. "Oh, he's Giyuu! Uncle Qrow found him in a forest and dumped him off to dad!"

Well, that was one way to phrase it.

Before the conversation could continue though, Giyuu raised a hand. "I think we should probably get out of this place before anything else." he noted. As much as he had to admit it was somewhat amusing to watch the two sisters banter with each other, he was not quite in the mood for dying of blood loss. Well, although he doubted it would come to that, he also knew better than to delay something like wound treatment.

"Wait, you're injured!" Ruby exclaimed. Giyuu had to control himself from twitching. "Did that girl seriously break your aura?"

"Aura?" he asked. Is that some other term from Remnant I'm completely unfamiliar with?

"Yeah, aura!" Ruby explained. "The stuff that protects you and heals your injuries! Or do you call it something else where you're from?"

"Ah," he managed to whisper, his expression inevitably morphing into a rather sheepish one. So that's what protected Neo from my sword strikes... Is that something common here? In that case, I... probably look like a reckless idiot, huh? "I don't think I have it." he said.

"What?" Ruby immediately yelled. Giyuu covered his ears immediately in reaction, the girl flushing slightly in embarrassment. "Sorry, ehehe... But you can't not have aura! You did that cool thing with the water! You can't have a semblance without having aura!"

"The water is part of my style of swordsmanship." Giyuu simply said, ignoring the looks of disbelief that flashed across the two sisters' faces. "Are you talking about the strange flash of pink light that protected... Neo when I tried to hit her?"

Ruby nodded. "That sounds like aura." she said. "You know what? We should probably just unlock your aura right here and right now if you don't have it yet! Those slashes must hurt a ton!"

Giyuu shrugged. It was probably part of the adrenaline, but frankly they didn't hurt as much as he had expected them to. Also, could I even have this... aura thing? It seems like it's something innately within them instead of something that's given. Considering Japan, well... isn't Remnant...

"Ruby, stop." Yang said, cutting off his line of thought. "You've done too much fighting. Let your older sis do this one for you, alright? My aura's recharged enough now that I've sat in a chair for so long." She turned to him and raised her hand. "Now hold out your arm."

Giyuu did so, and the older girl grasped his wrist. Though I wouldn't be surprised if they're unsuccessful...

"Alright, here I go." she said, looking much more solemn than he had ever seen her before. Is this supposed to be some sort of sacred ritual? he pondered. "For it is in passing that we achieve immortality. Through this we become a paragon of virtue and glory to rise above all, infinite in distance and unbound by death. I release your soul and by my shoulder protect thee."

Then, she released his hand, sighing. "Man, I always thought that thing sounded corny."

And for a brief moment, Giyuu glowed. A strange, radiant blue light emitted from his skin, covering his entire body in a strangely warm, familiar feeling protective shield before it disappeared, going away as fast as it appeared. By the end of the ordeal though, none of his wounds were open. Every single one was shut closed, with not even scars remaining.

And more than anything, he felt different. Complete in a way that he only recognized now, due to this strange part of himself actually being unshackled. If I could get back home, I absolutely need to tell the other demon slayers about this. This could... This could reduce the death count massively! It could be a chance against Muzan! A chance to end the fighting!

"So, you gonna stay silent there, pretty boy? We still have to get home, you know." Yang smirked. "Damn, so that really was nothing but your sword? You gotta tell me how to do that sometime. Would be pretty awesome if I could make a water dragon just by punching things."

"Yang!" Ruby jabbed. "Can't you see? He's still getting a feel for it! You can't interrupt such a cool and personal moment!"

Yang simply laughed.

"I... Thank you." Giyuu finally said, no other words forming at his mouth. "I can't teach you water breathing techniques, because they're meant only for swords. But I think... I think I can teach you something else that may help you fight. Both of you. As a return gift for unlocking... Aura, or whatever this is. And yes, we should probably get out of this place."

I don't think I've spoken for that long in years...

"Gee, no need to be so formal there." Yang said, before standing up, Ruby following after her. "Alright! We're off now! Let's go back home Rubes, and let's hope that dad doesn't kill us both!"

Ruby frowned. "Dad sent me after you, though. It's mostly just gonna be you he's mad at."

Yang paled. "Ahahaha, that's funny Rubes." she said. "I'm kinda dead, aren't I?"

"Yup!"

"Wait," Giyuu interrupted just before the two figures exited the club. "Shouldn't we do something about... that man?" he asked, pointing towards Junior, who was on the ground and unconscious. As much as the man seemed mostly angry that his property was being destroyed, he was still a criminal.

"Oh yeah, Junior!" Yang exclaimed. "I almost forgot around him!"

"Shouldn't we report him to the cops?" Ruby offered. Yang shook her head before sighing.

"Look, I'm gonna be honest." she said. This guy? No matter what, he isn't gonna stay in jail for long. I don't know how, but every time I've called the cops on him he's out of prison by the time a month is over. He's just sleazy that way. And well... I need his help on something."

Ruby gasped. "Yang, he's a criminal!" she exclaimed. Yang stepped back, a guilty look on her face.

"I know, I know. But there's no one else I can rely on for what I need to do. Or what I need to find. Ugh, man. It's important to me, Ruby, ok?" she said. "I promise I'll tell you more about it later on, but I just need you to trust me on this one. I'm not doing anything bad, just... I'm looking for something."

"And besides," she said. "This slime just won't flipping stay in prison. I've tried before, remember?"

Ruby paused, her face scrunching up. "I'm still calling the police." she said. Yang sighed in defeat.

"Yeah, I'm not gonna fight you on that." she said. "But you know what? This guy's kind of an assho- douchebag, so I might as well give him a bit of a kick before we leave."

Yang got to work, lifting Junior's body upwards and pulling him into a chair. Giyuu watched silently as the girl tied the criminal bartender up with the same ropes that had been used to bind her previously, dusting off her hands and smiling triumphantly as she finished.

"That should hold him for now," she said. "Now, Ruby can call the cops, and let's get out of here. For real this time."

Ruby nodded, although it was painfully clear that there was something on her mind that was still bothering her. Giyuu suspected inwardly that it had to do something with Junior and the police. Considering the girl had been bothered by the children in poverty, enough to actually do something, it wasn't a stretch to think that the girl was probably bothered by this as well.

Giyuu, on the other hand? He felt apathetic about it more than anything. It's not fair, but it's just how things are. It's not like I can do anything about it, and neither can Ruby or Yang for that matter. The best we can do is well... At least put him in jail for a month, I guess.

As the two sisters exited the club, Ruby pulled out the bag of fruits once more, holding it in her hand. By the time the trio re-entered Vale's main area, the bag was empty, and Ruby had gained a slight energy to her once more, the same energy that had completely disappeared when she had talked about Junior.

Giyuu trailed behind the two of them, opting to stand back and muse on the events of the day.

Later

Once again, the bullhead from and to Patch was empty save for three people. From a distance, Giyuu could hear Yang snoring in the seat in front of him and Ruby lightly tapping on the vehicle's windows, the girl gazing out towards the night sky of Vale. It was reasonably clear that something was... well, bothering her.

Giyuu wondered whether it was his place to confront her about it. Her previous conflict had clearly been with Yang, and it... well, wasn't his place to intervene on that particular issue. He had made his opinion silent for that very reason, opting to simply not voice his thoughts.

Still, there was something about the previously energetic looking reaper that he now mostly associate with the word selfless having a complete lack of said energy that was... fairly odd. That was something he couldn't deny. Now that I think about it, won't I get situations like these more and more, now that I'm hashira? If I ever get home, I would have to work more with others...

He felt the extremely large headache coming from a mile away. I'll have to attend meetings, talk to mizunotos, train new slayers... God, why in the world did I accept that position?

"Giyuu?" Ruby asked suddenly, snapping him out of his thoughts. "How would you deal with the Junior guy?"

Giyuu shrugged. "There's not much we can do." he simply said.

"Yeah, but that's just- it's just-" she sputtered out, before trailing off. "It's unfair! He's a criminal! He hurts people! He hurt Yang! But he's probably gonna do that again, even after all this trouble we went through to beat him and the ice cream girl!"

He stayed silent for a while. "There's not much we can do." he said again. "There are many things that aren't fair, but there's a time you have to recognize a situation where you can't do anything." Just like how I can't get home right now, he silently added in his head.

Ruby didn't respond for a brief moment, but her face scrunched up in thought. A few seconds later, she finally sighed, slumping back against her seat.

"Thanks for your help today, Giyuu." she said, much more energetically this time compared to the somber mood she had given off before. "You were really cool! With your cool sword stuff and with that water dragon! I don't think me and Yang would've made it out of there without your help."

Giyuu narrowed his eyes. "You're welcome," he said, because frankly he wasn't sure what else he could say. There was clearly something still bothering the girl, but it was much less... noticeable now. Still, it was clearly there. God, I really am no good at this. Someone kill me before I actually have to work as a Hashira...

The bullhead drifted onwards.

Chapter Text

In the end, the road back to Patch was a relatively slow paced walk. After her- albeit short- nap, Yang was relatively energized and ready to face the night. Or rather, ready to face a possibly very angry Taiyang. Ruby on the other hand hadn't slept throughout the ride and as a result ended up being extremely sluggish and tired. Giyuu hadn't slept either, but he had become accustomed by now to not sleeping for long amounts of time due to the nature of his assignments.

Even for someone considered a workaholic by other Demon Slayers, he couldn't help but feel as if though his crow as relentless at times. Especially towards the beginning of his time as a mizunoto. But such was the nature of how the corps operated. Nobody had any time to rest. Demons were simply too prevalent and widespread for any demon slayer to take breaks. Every minute of rest was one more person killed, and every hour was one more person turned into a demon.

"Aaand we're back!" Ruby exclaimed, huffing one last time as she slumped onto the grass. "Too tired... need... bed... quickly..."

"C'mon, sis!" Yang jabbed. "You should've slept in the bullhead like I did! A girl's gotta get her beauty sleep sometime. And now I'm all fine and dandy to face daaaa-" she trailed off. "Oh, right. I have to face dad, don't I? Please tell me he isn't too mad, Rubes."

Ruby merely hummed in response.

Giyuu quickly stepped in front of the two sisters and knocked on the door three times. Immediately, the sound of loud and heavy footsteps echoed into his ears, and out of the corner of his eye he distinctly noticed Yang slowly but steadily getting more and more pale.

The door opened to reveal Taiyang Xiao Long, in all of his pajama-clad glory. The man looked like he was still deciding whether he wanted to be angry or relieved, quickly switching between the two facial expressions. Finally, he deeply inhaled and exhaled, relaxing his posture.

"Thank the gods you're back. I was really starting to get worried that you and Ruby were in danger as well." he said. "Lemme guess. You found Yang in a destroyed club where she got herself in trouble because she destroyed the club?"

Giyuu nodded. That... actually pretty much perfectly summed it up. Taiyang sighed once more.

"I swear, my lifespan is gonna halve one day because of how much trouble you two get into..." he muttered. "All of you come inside. Ruby go to sleep, it's past your bedtime. Giyuu, sorry but you're gonna have to stay up a bit. I have something I need to talk to you about. Yang?"

The blonde girl flinched, chuckling nervously. "I'm guessing you're about to talk about how relieved you are that I'm safe...? And because of that I don't get into trouble...?"

"Nice try, young lady. But you and I are gonna have a serious chat about this." Taiyang replied. As the man stepped back, Ruby quickly dashed into the house, crashing into a nearby couch. Giyuu and Yang stepped inside afterwards. Inwardly, he did hope that the older girl wouldn't get into too much trouble. She had been reckless and annoying, sure. But still, the girl had seeemed... determined.

That was a good word to phrase it. Determined. Determined to find whatever she had been looking for. That feeling was something Giyuu could relate to, to a certain extent. Having a personal quest and striving towards that goal. Whether it was finding something precious or killing as many demons as possible.

Quickly, he stepped up to Taiyang, lowering his voice to a whisper. "I don't think your daughter was in there just to party," he noted, hoping the man would get the message. As much as the girl did probably need to learn some... cool-headedness, it wouldn't be fair for Taiyang to punish her while not knowing about the extra circumstances that were definitely there.

Unfair for the both of them.

And besides... he could relate to charging recklessly towards a goal. In fact, it almost perfectly described just what he had done until a couple years ago. And he had learnt the hard way just exactly how dangerous and harmful his path had been. It wasn't a feeling he wanted anyone else to experience, a feeling that he would try to stop someone from experiencing if he had the power to do so. So really, it was better to address it now, in a civil, and more importantly, safe way.

He decided to stop there, though. it was no longer his place to intrude. Gee, when in the world did I get so sappy? I'm sure if Shinobu was watching me right now she would have a good laugh.

"I know." Taiyang responded, to both his surprise and relief. Ah, so she really has done this multiple times, huh? Enough for him to figure out something about it. "And that's exactly what I need to talk to her about. Both she and I have been... avoiding the topic for too long." Oh, in that case, I suppose it's something that concerns both of them.

Giyuu simply nodded.

"But before that," continued Taiyang. "I need to get you to the guest room. It has a sink, a shower, a toilet and even a place where you can wash your clothes. I left behind a pair of my pajamas for now so you can use them for today. Ruby err... didn't actually buy you new clothes, right?"

Giyuu nodded again. The man sighed... in relief?

"Thank god," he breathed out. "I sent that text message and instantly regretted it. If it were up to her you'd be dressed in a ninja costume, all red and black."

The tips of Giyuu's mouth twitched into the tiniest of smiles. That did indeed sound like something the younger girl would do. Taiyang chuckled. "You're not really a talking type, aren't ya kid?" he asked. Giyuu shrugged in response, making the man laugh out loud again. "Anyways, don't go to sleep yet. Take a shower maybe, but I do need to talk to you about something. Now let me show you the guest room."

Giyuu nodded as he followed the man upstairs and into a small but cozy looking room with a bad and a door leading to what he presumed was a bathroom. "Thank you." he said as his host waved goodbye and left the room closing the door behind him. I guess it wouldn't hurt to wash myself...

Looking around the room one more time, he took off his haori and placed it on the desk.

Huh, it's torn.

He made a mental note to ask Taiyang for sewing tools later on as he stepped into the bathroom.

An hour passed before Taiyang Xiao Long entered his room again. In that time, Giyuu had managed to wash himself, figure out how to operate the washing machine, and practice his forms, making sure not to hit anything inside the room. It was a challenge in the smaller area, but not enough of one to deter him.

Giyuu sheathed his sword once more as the door opened, revealing a pajama clad blonde man looking much more tired than before. Immediately, the man looked at him strangely. "You're gonna go to sleep in that? You know it's fine to use my pajamas, right? I don't mind." said Taiyang.

Giyuu shook his head. "I'm fine." he said honestly. He was after all rather comfortable in his outfit. He had slept in said outfit numerous times, and he frankly preferred it over sleeping in a pair of yellow pajamas with banana drawings plastered all over them.

"Alright then." Taiyang shrugged. "Anyways, that's not what I'm here to talk to you about. I talked to Qrow while you and Ruby were out looking for Yang, and well, do you have any idea why he decided to help you?"

Once again, Giyuu shook his head. By all means, it had been foolish of the man to help a stranger. Still, it was something that had happened and something that he personally wasn't able to comprehend.

"Alright, then. I'm gonna keep this brief." said Taiyang. "You're 16 years old, right? How good are you at fighting? Qrow told me some details, but I wanna hear the words from you."

Giyuu shrugged. Yesterday, he would have considered himself one of the better fighters in the world. After all, despite his lack of confidence in his own position, it was an objective fact that he was one of the most capable combatants in the demon slayer corps. But now, things had changed. He was no longer in Japan, and he had been outclassed in combat only a couple hours ago.

An image flashed to his mind. A heterochromatic girl with strange hair, swinging around a razor sharp umbrella. He had needed to use constant flux to even keep up with that girl, and even then he had been on the losing side, although he had evened the odds just a little bit with the technique.

The only question was, how did that girl compare on the overall scale of fighters? Was the girl considered an extremely capable fighter? Or were there much more severe threats out there? Threats that would crush him instantly with the flick of a finger or the blink of an eye.

He scrunched his face up in thought. The only proper benchmarks he had were Ruby and Yang. Yang was a year older than him, and Ruby was a year younger. But how did they measure up to their own peers? Both of them hold themselves with a confident stature in combat. Would that mean that they're just arrogant, or would that mean that they're considered above their age?

"I'm okay." he finally said. "I think I'd be able to keep up with Yang and Ruby."

Of course, it was an estimate and only that. But according to Yang herself, she hadn't been able to land a hit on Neo. Giyuu would probably be able to fight her on even ground at the very least. And while Ruby was extremely capable in combat as well, it was also a reasonable assumption to make that Yang would be a better combatant, considering her 2 year age gap.

"Oh, in that case you should be fine." Taiyang said. "Because I'm here to er, make you a bit of an offer."

Giyuu raised an eyebrow in curiosity.

"Would you like to become a huntsman?" Taiyang asked. A huntsman? What's that? Is that what Branwen is? Giyuu pondered. Immediately, Taiyang's eyes slightly widened in realization and he chuckled sheepishly. "Right, I forgot. Guy from a faraway land. Huntsman are... well, they're people that hunt the grimm. You know what grimm are, right?"

Giyuu nodded, his mind conjuring up the strange, demonic looking beasts that he had encountered earlier in the day.

"Although there's a lot more to it than just that, it's the gist of it. Huntsmen are paid to kill grimm and protect the cities." said Taiyang. "It's what Ruby and Yang are training to become. Yang's gonna try out for Beacon academy this year, and Ruby's studying at Signal."

Giyuu nodded in response. That... reminds me a bit too much of the demon slayer corps. Beasts that threaten the cities? Getting paid to fight them? Although the training thing is new... mostly demon slayers just go to a cultivator. We do have a training ground but it's not used too often...

"What exactly are you offering me?" Giyuu finally asked.

"A chance to attend Beaon." Taiyang said. "You said you're 16 so you're technically not of age yet, but well, I don't think the headmaster minds too much. And although you don't have any formal combat records, Qrow and I can confirm that you have combat potential."

"Is that even allowed?"

"Yeah, students with no formal records can try out if they have the support and assurance of an alumni." said Taiyang. "You would still have to pass initiation just like the other students, though."

Giyuu nodded once more. "I..." he trailed off, not quite knowing what to say. On one hand, he wanted at least a chance to try and search for ways to go back home, and going to a training academy would disrupt that goal. On the other hand, he didn't want to look a gift horse in the mouth, and Beacon, if anything sounded like a decent chance to further hone his skills as a combatant.

But I'm supposed to be the water Hashira. I have a responsibility that I need to fulfill. Is it even possible that I can find a way home now, though? How much am I willing to risk to try and search for something that might as well not exist? Where would I even start looking?

He frowned. Despite all rational logic, it felt a lot like a betrayal of the demon slayer corps to accept Taiyang's offer. My mind is telling me that there's probably no way home anyway, but at the same time, something is tugging me the other way. Am I betraying the demon slayers by accepting this? Am I betraying them for not going on a quest to find something that most likely doesn't exist?

But at the same time, he wasn't a good Hashira. He was technically the most skilled, but he knew better than anyone that he wasn't leader material. A Hashira was strong and confident, someone who charismatically pushed all other demon slayers forward and motivated them through sheer presence. The flame pillar was like that. The stone pillar was like that.

Him, though? He was just about the worst person possible for the job. Below him the next person to be Hashira rank was someone named Takuo, who was technically not skilled enough to be considered at a pillar level, but certainly held the right personality. In a way, would I be... helping the demon slayers by staying away from them? By letting a better candidate be the Hashira?

"I..." he started once more. "Thank you. I will accept your offer."

Taiyang nodded and smiled at him, patting his back. "Great!" he said. "I'll talk to Ozpin tomorrow about it. Now get some sleep, kid."

As the door closed, Giyuu sighed. There, he thought. I've made my choice. I'll... I'll help the demon slayers. I'll help them by staying away. Maybe without me, the water pillar will have a proper person to fill its role. That's right. I'm not betraying them. I'm helping them. I could help them even more by returning and going down a rank, but that isn't happening so I might as well just stay away.

"I'm helping them." he told himself once more as reassurance as he laid in bed.

As he laid down, closing his eyes, something in his chest called out to something far away, giving him the strangest feeling of longing.

He wished that the feeling would disappear.

Giyuu woke up earlier than the rest of the family that morning. It was reasonable, considering he was someone who worked in a career where sleeping light was absolutely essential to survive. Demon slayers didn't always have the luxury of staying in inns, and when they slept out in the open, there was no telling if and when a demon would strike from the shadows.

He briefly considered making the family breakfast as a sign of gratitude for taking him in. But on the other hand, the only thing that he knew how to make was salmon daikon. Other than that, his cooking skills were rather abysmal in almost every regard. The one thing he was- naturally- good at was cutting things.

He decided that practicing his forms would be a good way to spend his morning. After all, while the sun had indeed risen, he still had a few hours to kill at the very least. That was more than enough time for him to go over his morning routine and more.

Leaving his torn haori behind after some contemplation, he made his way outside to the Xiao Long-Rose household's rather large backyard. The sun was clearly visible in the sky. The breeze was calm. The clouds were thick but scattered puffs of round, fluffy air. The sky was a clearer shade of blue than most- if not all mornings in Japan.

The entire area felt awfully connected to nature if anything. It was almost unnaturally perfect for a meditative exercise.

Taking out his sword, Giyuu started with the third form. Flowing dance was, well a dance. There was no real other way to describe it. It created long, flowing tendrils of water that moved in harmony with his own practiced movements. It was the best form to start out with for the most part, because it led on well to different forms.

And his morning routine was exactly that- constantly shifting his forms, trying to still maintain a constant, river like flow. No pauses, no breathers, no missteps or errors or mistakes. He needed to be the river. The closer he could get to that trance like state, the closer he would get to mastering water breathing.

And maybe he would be able to master the move he was working on as well. But that was a far ways off.

Second form, water wheel!

Spinning around horizontally, his blade traced a perfect circle through the air, creating an expanding ellipse of water. The second form was one he also often used in his exercise because it was a challenge. It was hard to lead into and hard to lead out of. It was usually one separate movement that most people weren't able to fit within a flowing attack.

Still, that didn't mean it was impossible to do so.

First form, water surface slash!

Before the trail of water ended, Giyuu shifted his breath once more, and the ellipse of water that had been formed disconnected in one spot. Good, it didn't disappear, Giyuu thought. Like a whip, the trail of water shortened before leading into the most basic water breathing technique, leaving behind a simple trail of deadly sharp liquid.

Now he had to shift it into something else before the trail ended.

Sixth form, whirlpool!

Immediately as he shifted his breath once more, the blue trail of water turned into a turquoise one, indicating the wind that had been added to the technique. Out of all the forms of water breathing, whirlpool was the one that shifted the closest to another breathing style, implementing the slightest bit of wind into its movement.

Quickly, the now turquoise stream expanded into a rapidly spinning tornado. Now, before it ends!

Tenth form, constant flux!

A funny trick about flowing from one move to another was that it had the possibility of generating whole new applications, something Giyuu had learned from shifting whirlpool into constant flux. The most powerful water breathing technique was a form that required lots of momentum for it to work. Without said momentum, it wasn't nearly as effective, which was why water breathing users usually used spins to compensate if they weren't physically capable enough. And even if they were, spins were still recommended. Not required, but recommended.

But with whirlpool? The water was already travelling at incomprehensible speeds in a spiral. As such, transitioning smoothly into the tenth form would make it so that there was already a fair bit of momentum built up, even if a person was staying completely still on the ground.

It was a nifty trick, although it wasn't bound to be all that useful in an actual combat scenario. Something like that was... well, too much of a planned move. Useful, but there was unlikely to be actual combat setups where it could be applied properly.

As small drops of sweat started to gather around his skin, he decided to finish the routine.

Fifth form, blessed rain after the drought!

His breathing shifted one final time, and the blue dragon around his sword disappeared, leaving behind a thin, sparkling trail of water behind. Just like the name implied, it almost looked like a miniature rain. Now that I think about it, that was... easier than I expected. Usually doing something like this drains me much more.

Were these the effects of having an unlocked aura? So it's not just a shield, but an physical amplifier as well, huh? I wonder what kind of other applications it has...

"Well damn," a familiar voice interrupted. Giyuu turned around as he sheathed his sword, his eyes falling upon a familiar face. Slicked back black hair, a white shirt and long, black pants. Giyuu raised an eyebrow at Qrow Branwen, the man leaning against a nearby tree.

"You know," the man said. "Yang's probably gonna be jealous at that. Her name is supposed to mean small dragon, did ya know?"

Why would she be jealous of that? Giyuu thought, before coming to a realization. Ah, right. Constant flux... creates... a small dragon. Would that mean that she would feel as though she needs to live up further to her namesake? I suppose considering what I know of the girl so far, that would make a fair amount of sense.

In the end, he decided to simply shrug. "Why are you here, Mr. Branwen?" he asked.

Branwen chuckled. "What, a guy can't come to check up on his neices?" he laughed out. "But if you're really curious, I'm actually here to check up on you. See if you've gotten in any trouble after I dropped you off with Tai. So yeah, how are ya faring, kiddo?"

Giyuu shrugged. Frankly, he supposed he technically did get into trouble, but the catalyst for said problem had been Yang.

Qrow took his gesture as an "I'm fine," or at least that's what Giyuu supposed. "That's good," the man said in response. "How are Tai and the girls?"

"Taiyang is nice." Giyuu said. "The sisters are... energetic."

Qrow gave out a loud snort. "Yeah, that sounds about right for them." he said, before settling on a much more serious expression. "Now listen, while I'm still sober, alright? I dunno who you actually are, but you're gonna have to explain some of the shit you said to me back in that forest, kid. I trusted you with Tai because I knew he could beat the shit out of you if he wanted, and according to him you're good for now, but I'm gonna need some answers."

Giyuu scrunched up his face in thought before nodding. The man had made a risky gamble with him and had trusted his first impression, which frankly was a stupid idea. Still, he couldn't deny that Branwen had put at least some degree of trust into his character when he had sent him off to his brother in law. That was something that Giyuu appreciated. Maybe if I give him enough information for a necessary framework, but not the details...

"My real name is Giyuu Tomioka." he began. Qrow nodded, following along. "I come from a place far away. Not part of the continents of Remnant."

"So you're an alien?" asked Branwen. Giyuu shook his head.

"I don't think so. I'm human. But I don't recognize this place or know about it. You found me the day I woke up in a strange forest after going to sleep inside my house." he said. "And as for the part about the blood demon art, there are monsters where I come from that have strange capabilities."

"You sure they aren't grimm?"

Giyuu shook his head once more. "I'm sure. Grimm are black and white. Demons have green skin and can't be killed unless decapitated."

He supposed that at the very least, that much information was a safe amount to give away. Qrow leaned into the tree, pausing for a brief moment before taking out a flask- which Giyuu now knew contained alcohol- and taking a long, fairly dangerously large seeming swig.

"And since you know this, I'm assuming you're part of some huntsmen-like group?" Qrow guessed. Giyuu nodded.

"My official rank is Hashira, the water pillar of the demon slayer corps." he said. While something like that was information he would have been more hesitant to give away, the word Hashira or Pillar or Demon Slayer meant nothing in Remnant. They were completely empty terms.

Branwen scoffed. "Sounds important." he muttered. "You don't have any academies or training periods or anything? You just go straight up?"

Giyuu nodded once more. "We need the manpower." he said, not directly answering the question but providing enough of a response to give the man a decent mental image of what the situation was like back in Japan. He almost envied Vale for what they were able to do.

Vale was covered by walls. That meant that most- if not all of the city's population was centrallized into once, reasonably large area. So while a single Grimm attack would be much more catastrophic in terms of casualty numbers than a single demon attack in Japan, it also meant that people could rest easy since they were sure that Grimm were outside the walls. Even if a grimm attack killed more on average, there were less grimm attacks because the city was so well protected and the surface area to cover was smaller.

And Remnant had evolved its technology to a degree where they could make sure that actual attacks were extremely scarce. It was a far-cry difference from Japan, where demon attacks were scattered, but so were demon slayers.

"Jeez, so you're like some sorta child soldier?" Qrow said. Giyuu looked at the man strangely, his mouth opening to retort about how huntsmen were technically child soldiers as well...

Except... they weren't. Or at the very least, not to the point that Demon Slayers were. Yang was 17 and still in training. Giyuu had been deployed into active duty at the age of 13, shortly after he had survived the final selection. That was at the very least a 4 year difference, and considering Beacon was most likely a few years long, it would mean that huntsmen were at least 20 or over by the time they completed training.

"It's necessary." he answered honestly. Because frankly, it was. Demon Slayers were scarce as they were and demon attacks were rapid and unexpected. Qrow took another swig of his flask, staying silent. Giyuu decided to do the same, sitting down in a cross legged position.

After a moment passed, he decided to ask a question.

"Why did you leave me with Taiyang?" he asked. He knew that the man had seen potential in him as a fighter and had decided to help him, but why send him off to this household specifically? It was foolish to help an armed stranger like him, and even more foolish to send him to Qrow's very own family.

"Huh? I thought I already answered that, kid." said Branwen. "Dude might look pretty goofy right now, but trust me when I say you got nothin' on Tai. If he tried, he could kick your soggy ass in 10 different ways before you could even blink." he said. "Also, I was drunk and my cognition wasn't the best."

Giyuu nodded at that. So in his own, strange way, he exercised cautiousness?

He wondered what Qrow and Taiyang's relationship was. It was strange. He was almost certain that they cared about each other like family, but they were also rather nonchalant about the other possibly being in danger. I suppose it's that they do worry for the other's safety, but they also trust in one another's skill...

He wondered what a bond like that felt like. It was almost contradictory and it grinded at his mind, but also at the same time made perfect sense.

Qrow stood up, raising a single arm in a 90 degree angle. Giyuu raised an eyebrow at the motion. Is that meant to do something? Why would he raise his arm specifically like that? "Oh well, that's that. It looks like the girls are awake, so I'm gonna have to- OOMPH!"

Before Giyuu could blink, a red and black mass had collided into Qrow, and a familiar black haired girl was hanging off of the raised arm like a monkey with a tree branch. Ah, Giyuu realized. So that's why...

"Uncle Qrow, you're back! Did you miss me? Didyoumissmedidyoumissme!?" exclaimed one Ruby Rose, before the girl quickly gagged and hopped off his arm, speeding a few meters to the side while flailing her hands. "You smell drunk again!" scolded the girl as she crossed her arms.

"Part of the package, pipsqueak." Qrow jabbed back, smiling.

"What in the world is so loud here?" a new voice joined in as Yang Xiao Long tiredly walked out of the house's door, rubbing her eyes tiredly. But as soon as the girl saw the presence of her uncle, her face brightened. "Uncle Qrow? You're back early!"

Qrow chuckled once more as the blonde girl gave him a choking embrace.

"Oh, Giyuu!" Ruby called out, noticing him. "You're awake early too!"

Giyuu gave her a small wave in greeting.

"Hey, pretty boy!" Yang greeted as well. Giyuu turned to her and waved again. "You ready for today?" she asked.

Giyuu raised an eyebrow in question. Did I forget something?

"You promised to teach us... whatever, right? I don't remember what you called it, either that or you didn't give it a name. But you said it would help us in combat, right?" Yang said. "Well I mean, you don't have to if you want, but there's still some time before we have to eat breakfast, so... you up for it?"

Ah, right. I promised I would teach them total concentration breathing.

Giyuu nodded as Ruby joined in as well and Qrow looked at him with an interested expression. "Ooh, right! There's some cool super secret technique you use, isn't there?"

"Huh," said Qrow. "Mind letting me stay as well? I wanna see if this is something I've heard of before." Giyuu nodded. Frankly, he owed these people. At the very least he would teach them something new.

With that, the Hashira awkwardly scratched the back of his head. "I wouldn't quite call it that. But yes, it's a style of focus that will help you enhance your physical abilities." he explained. "But I have to warn you, it's not easy. Especially towards the beginning, both of you are going to struggle."

"That a challenge, pretty boy?" Yang challenged. Giyuu shook his head.

"It's a fact." he stated.

And thus their training began.

Chapter Text

Yang wheezed.

Let's do a roundup. Legs are tired, arms are tired, crap my fucking neck is tired! That's happened to me like, once in my entire life! she recounted, laying in a spread eagle position on the grass. Well shit, I feel like a complete idiot for making this a challenge. Pretty boy sure as hell doesn't mess around, does he?

She inhaled deeply and exhaled. Not total concentration deeply, since she was already tired enough. But the normal, calming deep breaths that energized her body- the type that didn't instantly cripple her entire body? Those were very much welcome. Well, at the very least it makes for a helluva morning exercise.

In the distance, she decided to opt out to observe Ruby, who was going through a similar initiation. Her poor little sister looked terrified after witnessing the horrors that had happened with her, but the girl pushed through anyway. Or at least... tried to. Similar to Yang's first few attempts, Ruby was unsuccessful at even grasping the technique that Giyuu had tried to explain.

Yang had personally gotten it in her 5'th "official" try. And then she had promptly lasted a few seconds before collapsing onto the ground.

Stupid breathing technique.

"Heh," laughed Qrow Branwen, about a meter to the left of her. Her uncle had actually gone before her and had done much better than her- and Ruby, it seemed- lasting 20 seconds before wheezing and sitting down. And on the first try as well! Giyuu had mentioned that it was higher than he had seen anyone go for their first try. Yang had smirked cockily back then.

Uncle Qrow was just awesome that way. Now if only she had been too...

Stupid breathing technique, she told herself for the second time that day, absentmindedly gazing at Ruby- who was having a surprising amount of trouble with getting it right. To her side, Giyuu's face slowly morphed itself with a slow but steady increase of frustration.

Yang smirked. Oh, so he's starting to get ticked off, huh? Now how could I exploit this...

Ruby tried one more time to breathe, once again unsuccessful with the technique. Finally huffing, the sword wielding stranger next to her slapped his forehead before delivering three swift karate-chops to Ruby's torso. Yang made her best attempt to laugh before wheezing once more.

Immediately afterwards, Ruby took a breath and the shape of the air morphed around her. Immediately afterwards, the girl collapsed on the ground just like Yang had done so moments before, wheezing in exhaustion. Damn, I should've taken a video or something!

Sighing, Giyuu finally made his way back to the center of the field, already looking tired. Yang laughed again, this time with some more success, earning her a glare from the blue eyed teen. "Alright," Giyuu said. "I... I suppose we'll take a 5 minute break before we start again. Try not to lie down or sit after doing it. It helps in muscle development."

Yang's jaw dropped.

"We're doing this again?" she nearly yelled out of incredulity. "Prett- No, you know what? I might as well just call you a demon from now on out." she said, not missing the boy's small but visible flinch towards her words that disappeared as soon as it appeared. "How long are we supposed to try at this thing for?"

Giyuu shrugged. "When I started we did hour long sessions with 2 hour intervals." said the boy.

"Hour long sessions!?" Yang repeated in disbelief. For a brief moment, the swordsman almost looked smug before going back to his usual nonchalant face and shrugging once more.

"Any shorter won't give you any noticeable improvement." said Giyuu. Yang huffed before lowering her head once more, looking upwards at the sky. "I... suppose we could start tomorrow." he said. Yang's head snapped back upwards quickly as she nodded as fast as she could.

"Thank the gods," she sighed in relief. "Jeez, this is really how you trained?"

Giyuu nodded. "It helps." he simply said. At that, Yang found the ability to grin. Maybe not facing an imminent hour of torture had something to do with having her head clearer. Still, even if this was painful as all hell, she could understand a no pain no gain mentality.

In fact, it was rather contradictory of her not to, considering her semblance was... well, exactly that. Wait, but now that I think about it...

"Wait, then how long can you maintain this thing?" Yang asked.

"24 hours a day." Giyuu quickly replied. "But it took me 5 years of training." he added.

Well, shit.

Yang sat up, inhaling and exhaling deeply and finding her strength returning to her once more. "Well damn," she said, the tips of a grin starting to form on her face. "Then I guess that I'll have to do it in 4, huh?"

Giyuu didn't give a comment to that. Yang fought the urge to lay back down as she got back up into a sitting position. "You know what? Just because you aren't responding to that, I'll freaking do it in 3! Just you watch, knife-eyes. You're gonna be completely Yang-ed away when you see me master this stupid thing."

In response, the boy only raised an eyebrow at her, looking at her curiously.

Yang sighed, hitting her uncle with an elbow as the man snorted in amusement. "Like, you know? Yang? Bang? Blown away? Banged away? And so you're gonna get Yang-ed away?" she explained. "Er, it's funny? Because it's a pun, you know? Wordplay and whatnot."

"No it's n..." Ruby trailed away, wheezing. Meanwhile, Giyuu scrunched up his face in thought for a brief moment before making an 'o' of realization with his mouth. Although it was stifled quickly, the boy made a slight noise that sounded suspiciously like a laugh.

Yang's eyes widened. That worked? Out of all things, broody sword kid thought puns were funny? And it wasn't even that good of one!

Immediately, she tried to control her expression with some degree of success, keeping the scheming smile that threatened to form on her face from being plastered onto her expression. Oh, I'm gonna have way too much fun with this! she thought with glee.

Just then though, a new voice interrupted, one that belonged to a certain Taiyang Xiao Long. "Breakfast's ready!" her dad said. "If you're all done playing tag out there or whatever, you kids can come back in!"

"Coming!" she yelled back before instantly regretting it. Alright, maybe not yelling level yet. Just gotta... restore some of my lungs first, she noted as she stood up, gazing Ruby do the same from the corner of her eye. Walking back to the house, she caught up with Giyuu. The boy turned towards her.

"So," she started. "Making a move early on my sister, huh?" she teased.

The boy deadpanned at her.

"You're utterly depraved." he said.

Yang burst out in laughter.

Breakfast was a loud affair at the Xiao Long-Rose household.

Frankly, Giyuu had steeled himself for the experience. He had seen and had been surprised by enough oddities in Remnant, both in the world and the people inhabiting said world. Still, some things- little details, mostly- managed to catch him off guard. Little details like Ruby borderline inhaling a place of cookies with enough chewing speed to make thunder breathing users jealous. Things like Qrow eating with a very distinct, slightly drunk looking grip on his fork but also managing to finish his meal before anyone else.

Speaking of Qrow, Giyuu felt like he was getting a better grasp of the man's character. And frankly, although he understood the what to a certain degree he still had no clue of the how. Little details fed him a surprising amount of information. Details like his sloppy but at the same time hyper-efficient eating, and the fact that while his movements looked drunk and sloppy the man never seemed to be in a bad stance. A loose one, yes. But a bad or an unprepared one? Never.

Behind the messy, quippy drunkard was someone who was most likely a hyper capable fighter.

But how? It wasn't that it was impossible to become a hyper capable warrior. Giyuu had seen hyper capable warriors with his very own eyes in people like his fellow Hashiras. But at the same time, he had seen how much Branwen drunk from his flask during the training session and breakfast. Even assuming that he had extremely fast recovery speeds, high tolerance and didn't drink as much during missions, the amount of alcohol the man consumed was borderline copious. Giyuu frankly had no idea how the man wasn't falling over and tripping past his own feet.

Or maybe it's a false flag? Something that isn't actually dulling to his senses, but gives off the aura of someone drunk? That would line in with his posture and legwork as well...

It was a genuinely plausible idea. In fact, there was only one flaw to it, and that was the simple fact that the man's breath near-constantly smelled god awful, and the alcohol type god awful specifically. Or maybe considering the technology here, a mixture or potion to replicate the smell but not dull the senses? But who would get close enough to smell him without being in stupid amounts of danger? That just seems overkill...

And of course, there was also the possibility that the man actually did drink that much alcohol and he was just a whole different species from the rest of the human beings on Remnant.

I suppose there's no use thinking about it too much for now, he decided before nibbling on what Taiyang had called a "pancake." Ruby had enjoyed it a decent bit, and while he was at least 80% sure that the girl was exactly the type of person to have a borderline dangerous sweet tooth, Taiyang seemed to a pretty good cook.

Huh, he thought. It wasn't bad at all. New and unfamiliar maybe, but definitely not unwelcome.

"Oh yeah," Branwen said. "Tai, Ozpin told me that he's available at 12 today. And bring the kid with you if you can."

Taiyang piped up, raising an eyebrow in curiosity. "Wait, what? I thought that it was just me that had to come." he said. Qrow merely shrugged nonchalantly, holding up his hands in an "I don't know" pose, a gesture that Giyuu noted was apparently something that existed regardless of country, time period or even world.

"You know how Oz is," Qrow replied. "The guy's constantly either scary smart, scary weird or both at the same time. Crud, he's usually both at the same time."

Taiyang sighed. "I suppose so."

Meanwhile, Giyuu had to wonder who this "Ozpin" person was. He assumed that bringing the kid along meant bringing him along. And he could guess that Ozpin was a leader in Beacon Academy. But from the details and the knowing sighs that the two adults in the room were giving out, the only visual image his head could conjure was that of a deceptively smart clown.

"Wait!" Ruby suddenly exclaimed. "Ozpin? As in like headmaster Ozpin? From Beacon!?"

Qrow nodded, laying back onto the chair. "The one and only."

"Whaaat? No way, why?"

Qrow flicked a thumb over to Giyuu's direction. "Because beach boy over there's signing up for Beacon's initiation this year." he said. Giyuu felt the odd desire to shrink as the attention of the room now shifted its focus onto him. Is... Is that supposed to be a big deal or something?

Almost reflexively, he held up his hands in a gesture of explanation. "It was a split second decision made last night." he said.

"Still, that's awesome!" Ruby exclaimed, speeding towards his direction. "You're only 16 but you're enrolling in Beacon! When you get your scroll you have to tell me aaalll about it when you're there!" she said. Giyuu instinctively leaned backwards, keeping a safe distance from the excitable girl. She might not seem to have the scythe right now, but it can't hurt to be careful, right?

"Hey!" Yang protested. "I'm here too, you know?"

For what it was worth, Ruby flushed in embarrassment before striking back. "Yeah, but you're gonna make everything sound super scary to try and..." she trailed off, seemingly not quite finding the right words to say. "To try and scare me! And plus, you're gonna talk about boys, and drama and all that boring stuff!" she jabbed back, pouting.

"...Actually, you're kinda spot on with that." Yang agreed after a moment, before a mischievous grin covered her face. "So you know what? I'll talk about nothing but that!"

"Yaaang!" Ruby protested, before turning straight towards him. Once again, Giyuu instinctively backed away. "You're not gonna do that as well, right? You'll talk about all the cool parts of Beacon! Like the weapons! And the fighting! And... And the weapons!"

Giyuu shrugged, pausing. "Sure?" he finally said. Ruby grinned in triumph.

"HA! You see, Yang? I've found a fellow hunter who's totally not into gossip and boys but weapons and fighting!" she yelled.

I'm... into weapons and fighting? Where in the world did she get that assumption from? And what in the world does being into gossip and boys even mean...?

"Alright alright, calm down." Qrow said, coming to Giyuu's rescue. "The kid has to pass initiation first. And so do you, young lady." he said. "Don't get me wrong, Yang. You're good, but Ozpin's cuckoo around the head sometimes with this and makes weird decisions that don't make sense until they do. Getting into Beacon ain't easy or simple."

Initiation? I wonder if it's anything like the final selection...

"Same with you, kid." said the man. "There's a few weeks before Beacon's initiation. Might as well use that time to practice with that sword of yours."

Giyuu nodded. It wasn't like he hadn't planned to keep a daily practice schedule anyway.

"By the way," Taiyang interjected. "I am seriously buying you some new clothes later today."

Giyuu sighed in resignation. Honestly, I suppose it's not like I didn't see this coming, he thought, solemnly looking Taiyang in the eyes.

"I would like to keep the Haori." he said, grasping the cloth. Taiyang nodded, and that was that.

When Giyuu had initially seen the large, towering castle that was Beacon Academy, he hadn't expected it to be a school. It looked more like a place that the royalty would dwell, in fact. Still, it made sense to a certain degree. The height of the location was strategically advantageous, giving it a vintage point over the city. Its design- while not lacking in flair- was also competent in its practicality, with lots of open areas and large walkways. It was tall, but also reinforced to an impressive degree with support structures.

And besides, what better way to raise moral than to have such a towering structure be the very building where the greatest future defenders of the city were created? With what little Giyuu knew about the grimm, he was at the very least aware that they were attracted to negativity.

Beacon was more than just a school in Vale. Its height and larger than life nature turned it into a symbol that made it so citizens could feel safe and happy.

The bullhead landed on a tower balcony, nowhere near where Giyuu had expected it to land. I suppose this is just a bit of a shortcut to who we're meeting? The way Qrow described it, this Ozpin person sounds... eccentric, he noted. Although I suppose he's not one I should trust without a grain of salt...

The door opened to reveal two figures. One was a middle aged woman with light blonde hair and a stern expression. The other was a silver haired man adorned in black and green that looked way too young for his hair to be graying the way it was. Is that Ozpin?

"Heya Glynda!" Taiyang greeted, inciting a kind, if not proessional greeting from the blonde woman. "Hello professor, sorry to keep you waiting." he then said. Ozpin smiled, raising his hands.

"There's no problem." he said. "Now why don't we step inside and all sit down? It's rather chilly out here in the wind."

The group proceeded to step inside a large, circular office that was reasonably well decorated. "Coffee?" Ozpin offered, raising the mug in his hand. Taiyang shook his head, and Giyuu followed. He hadn't tasted coffee many times before, but he knew that he wasn't too much of a fan. "Please, sit down." Ozpin said, gesturing to a pair of cushioned chairs.

Giyuu sat facing the headmaster, directly next to Taiyang. For a brief moment, the headmaster of Beacon stayed silent, sipping his coffee for a good while.

"I suppose you're wondering why I called in both of you instead of just one?" Ozpin began. Giyuu nodded his head, slightly exhaling in relief. At the very least, the headmaster went straight to the point. He could appreciate that. "Apologies, by the way. That was a mistake on my part."

"That's fine," Taiyang said, waving a hand. "But I am curious- why bring both of us here?"

Ozpin sipped his coffee again.

"Well for one," he started, "I must admit that I wanted to get an impression on the boy. Qrow's description left me quite curious, you see."

Taiang nodded in understanding. Ozpin continued. "Now, that was my initial reason. But now that I'm meeting the two of you in real life, I have some questions." he said, a twinkle of curiosity in his eye. "For example, how are you breathing so heavily, young man?"

Giyuu froze. He's sharp! I thought that total concentration constant concealed the physical effects of the breathing... So how does he know?

"Breathing heavily?" Taiyang asked, turning towards him. "I don't really notice anything..."

"Ah, it's well concealed for sure." said Ozpin. "But if you focus on the air, you can just somewhat feel the distortion of the atmosphere. Frankly, it should be impossible for someone to use up 100 percent of their lung capacity, yet you seem to be exceeding it."

"This is how I've always breathed." Giyuu lied. Ruby and Yang and even Branwen to a degree he trusted. He had seen Ruby's kindness and how Yang had cared for her sister, and even Qrow's hidden affection towards his family. With Ozpin, the man intimidated him more than anything. Not physically, but psychologically.

Around the headmaster of beacon, he had the feeling not just of eccentricity, but of power. And a very familiar power. In fact, the man gave off similar feelings to the older and more powerful demons he had faced in the past, except the feeling was amped to eleven.

So while he was reasonably sure that the headmaster was a demon, the man gave off the energy of something ancient. Something that lived for way longer than it was supposed to. Giyuu didn't like that feeling. Although I probably shouldn't make early assumptions. He could simply be strange, just like Branwen said.

Still, he wasn't going to directly trust the man with his secrets just yet.

Ozpin merely shrugged in response. "I suppose some people just have strange biologies," he said, brushing off the topic. Giyuu narrowed his eyes. That's... a strange way to switch a topic. Is he really brushing it off like that? he thought. He couldn't help but feel as if the topic would inevitably come up once again.

He hoped that his gut feeling was wrong.

"Now in that case, we'll just have you sign here" Opzin told Taiyang, pulling out a form. "And could I see your weapon briefly, young man?" he asked.

Giyuu hesitated. Eh, he thought. I'm being way too paranoid, aren't I?

Gripping his nichirin blade, he pulled it out before handing it to the headmaster. Raising it up to eye level, the man briefly inspected the surface of the blade, furrowing his eyebrows in thought. "Did you make this, young man?" he asked. Giyuu shook his head, and Ozpin nodded. "I thought so. Whoever made this blade made it using age old techniques. I must say however, that it's hard to argue with the results."

He handed the sword back. Giyuu took the blade and sheathed it. "If I may ask," Ozpin continued. "What does the lettering on the surface say? I don't quite think I've seen such a script used before."

Giyuu looked the man in the eyes, before shrugging. It wasn't like the question was particularly intrusive anyway.

"Destroy all demons." he said, and Ozpin chuckled.

"Well, I must say that that is quite the phrase." the headmaster said. "I look forward to seeing you at initiation, mister Tomioka."

Giyuu shrugged.

Frankly, just how cliche the words sounded made him cringe.

But nobody needed to know that, least of all someone like Haganezuka.

And so the days passed on.

Giyuu's meeting with Ozpin went completely without any issues, at least on the technical side. Qrow disappeared again, and Giyuu hence forth learned that the man was often away for important assignments and was one of the most skilled fighters in Vale. Yang and Ruby continued their routine of trying to learn total concentration breathing.

By the end of the week, their time had increased by about half a second. It was... steady progress, he supposed. Although it was slow, he couldn't blame them considering they also had duties like their personal training routines and something called summer homework that neither of them were particularly fond of.

Meanwhile, seeing as Giyuu had almost copious amounts of free time, he decided to train a lot and help out in the town. He visited Ms. Bloom fairly frequently, the woman having initially mistaken him for a faunus due to the sharpness of his eyes. He also helped out Taiyang, which as almost a guarantee considering he owed the man a fairly large sum of help.

And while he was technically broke on Remnant's currency, he had experience in physical labor due to his background before becoming a demon slayer. It was strange, re-accustoming himself to the work, but it wasn't particularly difficult either, especially with how much technology had developed compared to when he had lived in his village.

He worked on the technique he had wanted to try out. Progress on that was... slow. It only spoke to how much he needed to improve, despite his formal position as Hashira.

Another thing he needed to work on was flow, but that was much more steady with its progress, especially due to how much aura boosted things like his stamina and endurance. Leading into moves was something essential because it was going to be necessary for him in the future to lead into a water basin when fighting against opponents without aura. And it couldn't disturb him during a fight by requiring his active focus.

It needed to be similar to how reasonably experienced demon slayers didn't need to keep total concentration breathing active by paying constant attention to it. He needed it to be like an on and off switch, not a weight he had to constantly hold in place.

That meant he would need to build and learn a whole new technique from the ground up. Still, it was worth it.

Killing humans using breathing techniques was something fundamentally distasteful, and if possible he would always try and avoid it. Concentration breathing was something made to save lives, not end them. And while Ruby had the flip-side of her scythe and Yang's weapons were completely blunt, his own sword didn't have the luxury of having a blunted part he could work with.

Aura was also something that fascinated him. It was almost similar to concentration breathing in a sense that its applications were extremely varied.

Not that he could do anything with it, of course. His skill with aura was about as good as a toddler.

Still, it was interesting to read about at the very least.

Later, 5 days before Beacon's initiation

Headmaster Ozpin sat down, tapping his desk impatiently. A week! It had been an entire week since the sword that the boy had carried had wormed its way into his head. The texture, the weight, the color. Ozpin had seen it before, he was confident of that at the very least.

But where and when was the question. Was it so far beyond his time that the last time he had seen the metal was during one of his past lives? Or was his memory simply failing him? He had searched books and archives and files, but none of them helped either.

Still, something about that blade and it's material was familiar. Now if only he could find out what about it was like that...

He stared at the wall. Wracked his head and memories. Maybe, he thought, I should start all over again from the very beginning. Start with what I already know for sure. He pulled out a pen and a paper, beginning to scribble a list of the facts that he was sure of.

Number one, he had seen a blade of that material before. Number two, it was unique in that no other weapon in Remnant used said material. Three, the weapon looked somewhat similar to the sword of one Raven Branwen, and in fact, the boy himself looked somewhat similar to the woman.

Ozpin stopped himself. There was a rabbit hole waiting for him down that particular road, and he wasn't willing to travel down said rabbit hole without proper evidence. For all he knew, the similarities could be nothing but pure coincidence, and quite frankly it was more than likely that such was the case.

Alright, he thought. Considering the first two details, the weapon's made by something that's at least IN Remnant at the very least, so it's not alien or something. Perhaps a material usually not used to create weaponary? But that's unlikely as well. That weapon was sturdy and didn't have any noticeable flaws with its design or material. So if a sudden material was discovered to be effective like that, it would be used widely by now...

So the most likely case was that the material was either extremely rare, or it was something that people didn't have access to any longer. Ozpin leaned more towards the latter.

But what could that mean? Now that I think of it, that sword was made using manual folding. That hasn't been used for at least a century... Perhaps some sort of heirloom? But even then, how has it not rusted by now?

The question stirred in Ozpin's head. He was getting closer to the answer, he could feel it. But there was an important detail he was missing, something he felt was integral to just exactly why he felt so invested in the strange looking blade in the first place.

Despite the technique used, the blade looks new too. And it looks like Raven's. It has a natural tint, Ozpin noted. Raven is part of this, somehow. Maybe not directly involved, but my thoughts keep straying towards her, and that must mean that she has to do with what I'm missing here...

Age. Old age. Old techniques.

Perhaps he had to take a step back and look into history?

Opening his scroll, he shuffled back to an old history textbook, one of the few that had been somehow archived when Scrolls had not been widely used around the continents. On the cover was a familiar world map of Remnant's continents, the one difference being that one continent in particular wasn't blacked out and painted with dark colors, instead appearing as a lush green.

Something clicked in Ozpin's head. Ah, he thought. So that's the significance of Raven. Of course, how could I forget? The Branwen clan may roam around Sanus nowadays, but they were in other places as well, weren't they? And age! Aha! Of course, that would make sense...

Ozpin paused. It did make sense, at least until it didn't. The clues all led to one place, he knew that now. His familiarity with the texture, his gut instinct that screamed at him to look further into the issue. The significance of Raven and the Branwen clan.

Nichirin, the name of the metal. It came to him like a final puzzle piece that made sense of the mental image in his head. One of the strangest metals in Remnant in the sense that it only could be found in one place. Or rather in one particular mountain, a mountain on the north edge of the continent of Arian.

A continent that was so overrun by grimm on its northern half that even the most experienced huntsmen simply stayed away. So how would a teenager too young to qualify for Beacon get his hands on Nichirin? It was just about impossible to reach the mountain, Ozpin was sure of that. The land, the sky, the sea- it was all filled to the brim with grimm.

Perhaps the boy was simply lucky? Or perhaps there was another hidden repository of the metal?

He quickly checked his calendar. There were 5 days left before the start of Beacon. 5 days where he could potentially do something. But would he?

Tapping his desk, Ozpin fell into thought for a brief moment before he finally decided, standing up and grabbing his cane.

First, he would find Glynda and tell her of his absence. That was already difficult enough for him to do considering the woman could be outright terrifying at times, but it was nothing compared to what he would do next. Still, something ticked at his mind, something screamed at him to look for answers. There was something deeper behind this, he was absolutely sure of it. Impossibilities were becoming possibilities, and he knew better than anyone that information was a man's greatest tool in winning a war.

Unfortunately, there was only one person he could go for answers on this. One person who knew more than him about this entire ordeal. Because while Ozpin hadn't ever visited Arian's northern regions, there was one person in the world that knew about the continent's geography history better than anyone.

And no matter what, that person would always be the head of the Branwen clan.

Ozpin sighed, sipping his coffee one last time. Perhaps I should try asking Qrow first? he wondered, before shaking his head. Qrow was only a Branwen in name by now, and the man hadn't even been close to ever accessing the clan's archives of text- not that he would have bothered, of course.

So in reality, there was no other choice for him but to pay a visit to Raven.

I do hope that at the very least she doesn't pull a sword on me the moment she sees me, Ozpin thought.

Immediately after, he burst out in a full on chortle.

Raven? Not pulling a sword on him?

Who was he kidding?

His laughter dying down, Ozpin started his walk towards the elevator. There was no time to waste, after all. He was about to see an old acquaintance, and may the gods give at least some degree of mercy before he got another migraine from even thinking about this entire ordeal.

Chapter Text

Sometime in the close past

Roman Torchwick suavely walked forward, striding past a various assortment of criminals, ranging from members of the white fang to common petty thieves and burglars. Roman though? He was on the top of the food chain. Or at least somewhere close to that.

After all, while he wasn't the best one on one fighter, his skills were also nothing to scoff at. And most of the time, he didn't even need to handle one on one fighting. That job was left to Neo. But there was a reason that he was the head of operations and not Neo.

Well, there was the fact that Neo couldn't speak, but that was irrelevant! Roman Torchwick was someone who got things done, and got things done with damn style. He hadn't earned the title of one of Vale's greatest criminal masterminds for nothing.

But alas, it wasn't he who headed the operation this time around. That title belonged to a much less stylish, much more brutish woman who seriously needed a lesson in anger management. Although he did have to admit that she had some damn good fashion sense if anything.

Still, he would take control of what he could take control of, and he sure as hell would be taking proper control of this operation. Cinder Fall was a damn terrifying woman, but robbery wasn't something she specialized in. So imagine Roman's surprise when he had been hired by someone for massive sums of money only for the job to not make use of his talents. It was completely senseless, and Roman would be amending that.

And so he now had the role of talking to Cinder Fall. Trying to argue with Cinder Fall. Roman inwardly gulped. Now that I think about it, this may not have been the very best of ideas.

Nevertheless, he marched forward to the fiery leader of the operation and his boss by technicality.

"Heya there, Cindy!" he greeted, regaining his confidence as he marched up a circular platform. "Long time no see!"

Cinder Fall glared at him, and Roman tried his very best to look confident. He wasn't typically one to get scared, but if someone could beat Neo in combat the way Cinder had, there was no way that he wasn't gonna be careful around her. "What do you want, Roman?" she asked. Roman grinned.

"Now I was just looking over the plans that you gave me yesterday, and-"

"Let me guess in advance, you have a problem with them?" Cinder interrupted. Roman sweat dropped, but still kept up his grin. Keep confident. Don't show emotion.

"No, the plans are fine!" Roman exclaimed. "Buuuuut," he continued. "There is just a liiitle tiny-" Massively large "-slight improvement-" complete overhaul "-that I could make to make it a bit better using my expertise in the field! Trust me Cinder, by the time you hear me ou-"

"Spare me the flair, Roman. Your point is quite very clear." Cinder interrupted again. Roman paused, his mind working on overdrive. How the hell am I supposed to go from there?

Before he could finish his line of thought, Cinder continued speaking, this time her voice accented with a trace of sarcasm. "Now, since you seem so adamant on telling me just how bad I am at this, why not tell me your plan, oh great and mighty crime lord?" she drawled. "Maybe if your plan is extra good," she said. "Maybe then I'll be actually happy about it."

Cinder's eyes flared with a brief flash of flame.

Roman smiled before beginning his explanation. "Now, as I said, your plan is pretty good... but you're not going the extra step to make it great! Right now, there are 7 dust shops open during nighttime in central Vale, 7 that we can rob. But right now there's also a Schnee shipment of dust that's coming in from the sea that's gonna arrive tomorrow, and if we can manage to get our hands on that, there's more dust than all 7 shops combined!"

"And how," Cinder began. "Will you rob a ship from the Schnee Dust Company? Do you not expect for it to be heavily guarded at all?"

Roman flashed her a grin. "Elementary, my dear." he said. "Leave that part up to me and I'll make your hands will be filled to the brim with dust by the end of the week. All you have to do is shoot some flames from your hands!"

Cinder paused, grimacing. After pausing for a good moment, she finally responded. "Fine," she said. "This better work, Roman. I refuse to blow our whole operation just to get some measly amount of dust."

"But we do need the dust for the operation itself, am I not right Cinder?" Roman jabbed back. Cinder scowled at him.

"Just don't forget who's in charge here, Torchwick." she said as she stood up from her seat. "If you just keep that in mind, I suspect we'll have no problems whatsoever."

The Next Day, Present Time

The clothes that Taiyang had gotten him were... strange, and that was just about all Giyuu could say about them. It wasn't to say that he wasn't grateful because obviously he was. But the clothing choices in Remnant were so utterly different from the clothes that he had grown up with.

In the end, he had settled for a few plain blue long sleeved shirts called 'sweaters' accompanied with long and somewhat loose grey trousers. Taiyang had been almost desperate to give him a strange item with half-sleeves that the man had called "t-shirts," but Giyuu had right there and then affirmed that he would never wear such a thing. It was just strange. He had seen tank tops, he had seen sleeves. But something in the halfway point like that?

Completely beyond comprehension.

Eh, he thought. At least these are somewhat comfortable...

Speaking of clothes, one Ruby Rose was currently doing her own version of clothes shopping. Which naturally meant that she wasn't shopping for clothes at all, but instead looked around shelves filled with potentially deadly weapons and substances.

It was astonishing how enthusiastic a single person could be for a simple axe. And not an amazingly well crafted one either, in fact- if anything it looked fairly impractical to use in combat. Still, Giyuu was now finding out that Ruby Rose wasn't a picky eater when it came to tools meant to kill. The girl hopped around from isle to isle, looking like she was on a dose of worryingly strong drugs.

He on the other hand, simply sat down and talked to the shop owner, who was a surprisingly pleasant man who made for good conversation. Since technically his only job was... well, existing somewhere in Vale for emergency situations and such, it (thankfully) wasn't his job to constantly keep up with the younger girl. Though frankly, he had to admit that to some degree, he didn't see the point. It had been made fairly clear that both Ruby and Yang were more than capable of beating the vast majority of Vale's criminal world, save for exceptions like the umbrella girl, Neo.

Maybe it was a dad thing. He did suppose that with all the moving around that the entire extended family seemed to do, it was useful to have someone quiet and less energized as an... assistant? Supervisor? He wasn't quite exactly sure how to phrase such it.

And thank god for that. Giyuu enjoyed his interactions with the Rose-Xiao Long family, but dear god did they make him tired sometimes.

"By the way," the shopkeeper said, interrupting his thoughts. "you from outta town or something?"

Giyuu turned towards him and nodded. The shopkeeper nodded back, an understanding look on his face. "I would say you look like a cat faunus," he continued. "But you don't have the little ears on your head. You from Mistral by any chance?"

"No," Giyuu responded. "I'm from far off." he said, opting to the vague default response he had given just about everyone in Remnant. Meanwhile, Ruby started to walk towards the counter with an armful of bullet casings and gun magazines, dropping them on the counter and quickly taking out a wad of bills.

But Giyuu wasn't focused on that. No, what caught his attention more was the man that had walked past the shop. A man dressed in a black tuxedo and a similarly dark colored bowl hat. He was absolutely sure that he had seen that same man, or at least a man wearing similar clothing, walk past the weapons store at least half a dozen times.

He resisted the urge to grab his sword. Years of active duty had taught him all too clearly that in a situation like this, his sword absolutely needed to be unsheathed at the very least. But this was Vale, a place filled with unassuming civillians, and a place without demons hiding in plain sight.

Still, something in his gut told him that things were about to go wrong. He didn't like the feeling whatsoever.

"Alright," Ruby said. "Now we just have to get some dust and we can go back home. Come on, there's some super cool stuff I have to show you with Crescent Rose! There's this new ammoshellI'vebeenworkingonthat'susinggravitydustinsteadofallthenormaltypesandit'sjust-"

"Ruby," Giyuu interrupted, raising a hand. "I... have no idea what you're talking about."

"She's a handful, I tell ya." the shopkeeper added. "Ma' first day in Vale and she was runnin' around the store already. Hasn't stopped doin' that ever since."

The usually excitable girl flushed crimson, freezing in place. The shopkeeper paused, seemingly not quite sure what to say next. Frankly, Giyuu had no idea what to say after that either. He had spoken way more often than usual in his short stay in Remnant, but he was still less of a "talking" type and more of a... slicing type, he supposed.

In a way, the sword was an awfully effective form of communication. Although he had only used it against demons, he personally thought his nichirin blade communicated his intentions almost too well. In fact, one could even say that it was razor sharp in showing just exactly what it meant to say.

"Dust!" Ruby suddenly exclaimed, breaking the uncomfortable silence. "Right! Dust! Let's go getsomedust!"

She promptly sped out of the shop, leaving behind a chuckling shopkeeper.

"Make sure not to let 'er out of sight, young man." laughed the man. "One bad moment and she might be seven blocks away."

Giyuu felt an incoming mild headache as he pinched the top of his nose, exhaling deeply.

"I'm... aware." he finally said, bowing to the man before leaving the shop as well, his focus elsewhere. Ruby was someone he could quickly find just with the call of a scroll, so he wasn't too concerned about her getting lost in a city that she was more familiar with than he was. On the other hand...

A man wearing the same tuxedo had passed by the store again.

Giyuu narrowed his eyes, sighing before heading towards the dust store that Ruby had sped to. Was it really just his nerves? It had to be, right? There's no way a criminal operation is gonna be that obvious... Right?

They had passed the dust store this time. Now the men were walking past the windows more often, and he swore that he had made eye contact with one. At the very least, Ruby seemed a bit less energetic this time around, opting to walk around the shelves and carefully examine dust crystals instead of bouncing around the store's isles.

Giyuu sighed. God, if this all passes and it all ends up being nothing at all... he thought. How often in Vale did multiple tuxedoed men pass by the same store? Was it normal for something like this to happen? And the people look super... relaxed about it too. Is nobody else noticing these people?

"Ruby," he called out as she turned towards him. "Do you see the people in black tuxedoes?"

The girl raised her eyebrows in confusion. "Huh?" she asked, before perking up. "Oooh, them! Uhh, Yang told me that she met them yesterday, apparently they're a TV crew for a show investigating... uhh, cities?" she concluded awkwardly, her voice trailing off. Giyuu sighed in relief. So it is nerves after all, huh?

Still, he kept his eyes peeled open. Ruby's explanation did make sense, but there was still no harm in being careful, right?

The doorbell rung, familiar silhouettes stationed behind the glass doorway. Giyuu flinched. In the corner of his eye, he noticed that Ruby was now reading a comic, a strange contraption placed around her head. The clock in the store also indicated that it had just passed 9:30 P.M.

As the door to the dust shop opened, the dark clad TV crew entered the shop, followed by an orange haired man with a bowl hat and a white outfit that mirrored the rest of the group. I'm guessing he must be the crew's leader, then? Giyuu wondered as the crew strolled in an abnormally large box.

Is that where they keep their equipment?

"Heya there," the orange haired man greeted. "Sorry for being so late, but there aren't too many dust shops open so late at night. I'm just wondering if you could quickly help me find some fire dust?"

The storeowner grumbled before pointing diagonally, indicating what he presumed was the isle with fire dust. The orange haired man gave a wink before moving towards the isle. Giyuu paused before heading to Ruby. Something in my gut is still ticking off my nerves...

"Uhh, sorry!" called out the orange haired man's voice as Giyuu began to walk, making him pause. "I can't find the right dust! Mind coming over here and helping me?"

The shopkeeper grumbled once more before moving towards where the man was. Giyuu simply shrugged and continued walking forwards. It's nothing but a fairly harmless interaction, nothing to kill my nerves over... I'm being paranoid, right?

Just before he arrived where Ruby was, a loud mechanical noise echoed throughout the store. What? Giyuu thought as he flinched and turned around to where the sound had emanated from. His eyes were greeted with the sight of the windows of the shop being... closed off? Whereas before there was the background of Vale when he looked towards the glass, now there was only dark grey metal.

An external gate! Giyuu realized. That means that the shop is now... barred... off.

His eyes widened at the realization.

Oh god. That would also mean that...

He jumped upwards, his restraint long gone as he gripped his sword and bounced off the wall, heading towards what he hoped was the correct isle for where the orange haired man was. There! he thought as the very distinct sound of a gun being clicked echoed throughout the room.

Giyuu charged up one of the quickest waterfall basins he had done in his life.

And then, he crashed down onto the bowl hat man, knocking him down with Giyuu in tow. Immediately afterwards, he quickly recovered, jumping backwards and sighing in relief. Although he couldn't quite tell, there was a good chance that the store owner didn't have aura. After all, Taiyang had told him that most civilians didn't.

Wait, Ruby!

As soon as the thought echoed in his mind, a dark clad man with a sword slammed into the wall, a white glow protecting him from most of the impact but the strike (?) still seemingly rendering him unconscious. I... suppose she's handling herself fine, Giyuu thought. He also now knew that the henchmen had aura, which was good to know.

"Kid, do you know just how much these clothes cost?" A newly recovered bowl hat man said, interrupting his thoughts as he dusted off his outfit.

Giyuu didn't answer, instead opting to charge the man with his sword. Right... effective communication. Bowl hat groaned. "I never like the broody types." mumbled the man as he pulled what looked like a trigger on his cane, making the bottom end of the tool pop open.

Giyuu dodged left, avoiding the strangely shaped bullet that popped out of it.

Unfortunately, he wasn't able to avoid the explosion that followed.

And in an instant, everything went to hell.

Giyuu felt a sudden force push him to the left, shoving him into dozens of glass vials and dust crystals. Immediately afterwards, said crystals seemingly exploded, starting from one isle to the next. Fire, thunder and ice erupted around the dust shop in a butterfly effect that turned the store into an elemental petri dish in an instant.

Thank god for aura, he thought as he found himself thrown into one of the shop's walls along with Ruby and a henchman, Roman and the rest of the henchmen ending up on the other side. Meanwhile, the store owner had hid himself under the desk, granting him a form of safety from the winds. Giyuu sighed in relief at the sight.

"Oops!" Roman exclaimed, dropping down quickly from the wall. "Totally didn't mean to do that, sorry. Dammit, I was gonna rob the dust, not destroy it!"

Giyuu narrowed his eyes. Was it normal for people to reveal their plans during dangerous situations? Or is this man just different from most people? he wondered. Of course, there was a chance that the man was misleading them. But misleading them from what? Another bomb planted on the ground?

To his left, a coughing noise echoed throughout the burning store as Ruby dusted herself off, specks of concrete dust being swiped off her arms. "Ruby," he called out, getting her attention. "Don't rush straight in and look out for anything more. The man with the bowl hat probably still has cards up his sleeve."

"Got it!" Ruby yelled before proceeding to do exactly what she had been advised not to do, rushing straight into combat with her scythe spinning. Groaning in frustration, Giyuu followed, activating the ninth form of water breathing to quicken his movements and increase his momentum.

Meanwhile, the last remaining henchmen started to sprint ahead, blocking his way to where Ruby was now engaging bowl hat. Ruby seemed to be winning for now, but Giyuu knew better. Bowl hat had known exactly where to detonate an explosion so that he would get minimum damage while Giyuu would be most affected by the explosion. Judging by the size of said explosion, both Ruby and his own aura had taken a fair hit. Although the threat wasn't life threatening yet, it was very much on its way to getting on that level of danger.

Twisting his body, he activated the fourth form, striking tide, cutting past all of the henchmen in an instant and reaching bowl hat's location. Just as he did so, Ruby fired off another bullet backwards, speeding into the man and kicking him in the abdomen, sending him flying backwards.

The man grumbled as he stood up.

"Alright, that's it!" he yelled. "I must say, little red, you've been an absolute delight tonight. But unfortunately I'll have to cut our evening short!"

And then suddenly, the room was filled with smoke. Giyuu immediately stopped his breathing, gritting his teeth in frustration. As much as he hated it, total concentration breathing used copious amounts of air, and there was absolutely no telling just exactly what that smoke was made up of.

And then, just as quickly as it had appeared, the smoke disappeared, along with the bowl hat wearing criminal. However, a new detail- a rather large detail at that- that had appeared was a new hole in the ceiling, exposing Vale's night sky and broken moon.

"The shopkeeper!" Ruby exclaimed as she seemingly regained her bearings, speeding over to the counter where the shopkeeper had been. Giyuu followed her over, and thankfully the man was well and alive, seemingly undamaged by the explosion in the ceiling.

Turning around, Giyuu hopped up to the dust shop's roof, distinctly hearing Ruby ask, "Can we chase after him?" in the background. Soon after, a red blur caught up to him, thankfully not scythe first.

Giyuu's breath hitched. What in the world...?

There were seven fires in Vale. Seven distinct orange fumes with concerningly large amounts of smoke rising from them. So this isn't the only dust shop that's being raided? There are more that are being burnt down, just like this? he wondered. Meanwhile, the sounds of sirens echoed through the streets as police vehicles and red trucks he now knew as firetrucks sped across the city.

"Where is he?" Ruby suddenly exclaimed. "He couldn't have gone too far, right?!"

"I'm... not sure." Giyuu answered honestly.

"Someone ask for me?" a familiar voice suddenly echoed from high upwards. Giyuu immediately turned around to see a bullhead in the horizon that was rapidly starting to approach them. He's... coming towards us? Why? Wouldn't that qualify as putting himself in more danger?

"It's been a pleasure, folks!" said bowl hat. "Remember, if anyone asks you for a story, the name's Roman Torchwick, Vale's greatest criminal mastermind! But trust me when I say that you two aren't gonna be living to tell any stories by the end of tonight."

Giyuu furrowed his eyebrows. A criminal mastermind that tells everyone that he's a criminal mastermind? Is he being serious right now?

Ruby on the other hand was less think and more shoot. With practiced ease, the girl shifted her scythe into a sniper and began shooting at Torchwick's vehicle, quickly destabilizing it. Still, the criminal held onto the bullhead easily, brandishing his cane once more.

"Cover me!" Ruby quickly said.

Giyuu sprung into action, quickly deflecting the two bullets that sprung from Torchwick's cane, this time making sure to deflect them forwards so that the explosive pellets exploded in mid air instead of blowing them up. Inside the vehicle, the criminal grit his teeth, frustration showing on his face.

And then to his surprise, the criminal... stepped back? And yet, the bullhead remained floating in place. Is this some sort of-

Flame.

An absolutely stupid amount of flames were suddenly headed straight to the roof of the dust store. Widening his eyes, Giyuu managed to form a quick water wheel that he launched into the ball of flame, making sure to finish with a water basin as the wheel exploded with liquid, absorbing the impact.

Meanwhile, from Ruby's sniper came out a familiar green tinted bullet that embedded itself into the bullhead. Immediately afterwards, another familiar bullet- this one red tinted- shot out of the weapon, and an explosion rocked the vehicle, destabilizing it much more than the normal sniper rounds.

That was when a new figure revealed herself. Giyuu couldn't see her face, just the very distinct looking glowing clothes and the fiery eyes. He could tell fairly easily that this was who had summoned the giant ball of flame earlier, and he could also tell that whoever this woman was, she was dangerous.

In the blink of an eye, a giant ball of flame had appeared from thin air once more and had launched itself downwards. Once more, Giyuu launched an improvised water wheel, negating the impact, his stamina slowly but steadily draining. I'm not sure for how longer I can keep up this defense.

As the flame dispersed once more, another ball of flame appeared behind it.

This one was closer. Much closer.

Ah, of course.

She could generate fireballs much faster than he could make water wheels.

Just as the ball was about to crash into him however, something pulled him backwards. In the blink of an eye, Giyuu found himself on the corner of the dust shop roof, a trail of burning rose petals in front of him. "Thank you." he said automatically, breathing out an exhale he hadn't known he'd had.

"Anytime!" Ruby exclaimed before readying her sniper once again. "But first we need to beat these two!"

How?

It was a legitimate question. If the woman was able to launch fireballs as quickly as she had just now for any amount of time, they were both as good as doomed. It felt as if though he was facing up against an upper moon demon, or in other words, someone who completely outclassed both him and Ruby.

Once again, a fireball materialized from thin air and launched itself towards their direction. Giyuu prepared another water wheel, the technique gathering at the edge of his blade.

And then, the flame disappeared. And in its place was a strange, runed purple surface that it had seemingly crashed into. What? Giyuu immediately thought before he noticed a new figure that had come up to the store roof, on the opposite corner as him and Ruby. A familiar woman with platinum blonde hair and a formal looking costume.

Goodwitch?

Immediately, the deputy headmistress of Beacon engaged in combat with the woman in the bullhead, creating strange, glowing structures and runes that countered the flames of the woman on the plane. The fiery eyed woman was clearly stronger in terms of raw power. Goodwitch never outright attacked her after all. But the longer the battle went on, the more it was clear that the headmistress had the advantage.

Every single pillar of flame and fireball that the villain launched, Goodwitch countered flawlessly, turning the woman's own strikes against her. It spoke to just exactly how good she just was at fighting. In Japan, the stone pillar had been considered the most powerful demon slayer of all, and although Giyuu had clearly felt the gap in power, he had never felt hopelessly outmatched against the older Hashira.

Here, he couldn't help but feel rather inadequate. The criminals and villains of Remnant were capable of serious destruction, and the huntsmen of the land were seemingly just as capable from what he could see here. Meanwhile, all he had was a sword that could create water.

Behind him, Ruby seemed to have a similar reaction. Her eyes were almost starry eyed with amazement as she gazed at the scene.

Finally, as Goodwitch unleashed a final attack that rained hail upon the bullhead, it thrust into full drive and retreated into the air, unable to sustain more damage without crashing. Is that the sort of power that huntsmen have? Will people like Yang and Ruby be able to do things like that when they grow up?

As the danger passed, he briefly wondered what kind of training Beacon did to create warriors like that.

Finally, Goodwitch turned towards him and Ruby and promptly walked towards their location, looking down at the two with an expression Giyuu couldn't quite discern.

Ruby's expression on the other hand was much easier to read. With an excited smile that was almost baffling considering her previous predicament, Ruby quickly rushed up to the Beacon professor, her eyes gleaming with excitement.

"Are you a huntress?" Ruby asked, before quickly following up with, "Can I have your autograph!?"

Glynda Goodwitch, if anything, looked positively disarmed if the- albeit well disguised- confusion on her face was anything to go by. Still, the Beacon professor quickly recovered, donning a much more professional expression than before as she pulled out something from her pocket. Giyuu took one look at it before sighing in defeat.

He held out his hands, quickly feeling the weight of handcuffs being wrapped around them.

He did hope that they didn't stay in jail for too long.

"So, Roman."

Roman Torchwick flinched.

"Answer me, did your plan succeed?" Cinder spat out. "Just fling some flames, was it, Torchwick? Is that what you told me to do? Fling some flames in front of a staff member of Beacon Academy? Is that what I was supposed to do, Roman? Just so you could have your little show?"

"For the record," Roman responded. "We did get the dust. Neo's arrived at the compound just now, no evidence whatsoever that can track us down. All in all I'd say it was a pretty damn perfect heist if I do say so myself." he said. Did flames just come out of her hair?

"That's not the problem, Torchwick." Cinder jabbed back. "Just because of you, we might have sabotaged our main operation. Just so you could get back at some children, our priority mission might be at stake here. And If you can recall correctly, I did tell you that we're not in Vale just for some dust!"

Roman... didn't quite have a response to that. For what it was worth, Cinder huffed with at less venom in her voice than before.

"Fine." she said. "This is only a setback. It's won't stop me from getting what I want. I refuse to let it." she spat out. "But we absolutely cannot take another risk like this, or everything we've worked for here will collapse in an instant. No more flashy raids, no more flair shows. Do you understand, Roman?"

Roman nodded quickly. There were times to make quips and jokes, and now absolutely wasn't the time. Especially with his aura being so low.

The rest of the ride back to the compound was silent. Cinder didn't have much else to say, and Roman didn't dare speak a word, although frankly he didn't have much to say either. Seriously, he thought. Who would've thought this bitch was so intimidating?

He was slowly starting to regret forming a contract with Cinder Fall. Money was one thing, but he could get money.

But right now, Roman was quite well aware that he was playing with things that were way above his paygrade. And while he could take money from others, the one thing he couldn't steal was a life. And Roman had risked both his and Neo's life one too many times for comfort in the past few months.

As the bullhead drifted on, he couldn't help but wonder just exactly what was in it for him in the future.

Chapter Text

The road to the Vale police station was a fairly silent one. Giyuu had nothing to say, Ruby was somewhere in between looking starry eyed and terrified, and Glynda Goodwitch, the target of said admiration and terror, looked at both of them with a poker face that communicated just about all the information that was needed.

The prison procedures themselves hadn't changed much compared to Japan though. It seemed that in that regard it was hard to outgrow tried and tested methods. And thus Giyuu found himself being strapped to a table via linking his handcuffs to a chain, effectively restrained from going anywhere.

I wonder though, what law did we actually break? Maybe one about property damage and vandalism? But that wouldn't make sense, considering most of the damage was done by Roman...

Goodwitch sighed as she sat down across him, interrupting his line of thought. "I would typically give you a good lashing if this happened in any typical robbery scenario," she started. "But I suppose in this case the two of you made the best of a bad situation. So what I'm about to say is more procedure than anything."

Ah.

"You're here on the account of vigilantism and fighting in another person's private property, indirectly damaging it." Goodwitch began. "Next time when you witness a crime, call a professional huntsman or the police. Absolutely do not dive into a situation unlicensed. You two could have very well been killed today."

"But we couldn't do anything!" Ruby protested. "The windows were all locked and we were trapped inside the-"

"Yes," Goodwitch interrupted. "That is why I said earlier that this situation was rather... out of the ordinary, and you won't be punished for it. Legally, at least. Still, I must scold you and urge you to not dive into dangerous scenarios in the future if avoidable. Do you understand me?"

"Yes!" Ruby exclaimed. Giyuu nodded.

"Now, both of you will be getting off with this scot-free this time around, but there will be consequences if this happens in the future." Goodwitch concluded. "Now that that's over with, there's also some questions we need to ask you. Namely questions about one Roman Torchwick."

Huh?

Giyuu nodded slowly. Why would we know anything about Torchwick that the police don't, though?

"There were 7 robberies in Vale tonight that happened all at the same time. I assume you two have already guessed this?" Goodwitch asked. Giyuu nodded, noticing Ruby do the same. Goodwitch's expression morphed into one of slight relief. "Good, that means that you should already be getting some implications from the things he did."

Implications?

"When you interacted with Torchwick, did he ever imply something... bigger, perhaps?" Goodwitch asked. "This is classified information, but I think you two could help. The police believe that Torchwick was planning something bigger that night. I'm sure you wouldn't be familiar with him Mr. Tomioka, but he's considered one of the most skilled criminals in Vale. To cause mass destruction is... unlike him."

"...Please give me a moment." Giyuu said before closing his eyes, diving into his thoughts. I suppose that there were some oddities about the robbery, but it's just... confusing. I can't form anything out of it. Why did Torchwick come back for us? Why did he foil his own robbery? There must be a connecting thread somewhere...

He sighed.

"There were some strange things, but I don't think I can say anything conclusive without more information." Giyuu finally said, Ruby nodding along with him. Goodwitch frowned for a brief moment before shifting back to her regular poker face, nodding in exasperation.

"Alright. Now, there's only one last thing I must do before I leave, and..."

The beacon professor paused, her face scrunching up to an almost comically painful expression. Closing her eyes for a brief moment, she exhaled deeply, mumbling something that sounded like, "Why in the world do I still follow that man?" as she straightened her posture one more.

"Typically," she began. "Professor Ozpin would have given you this information, but since he is... predisposed at the moment, he has asked me to be the messenger. I would have given this news to Taiyang first, but since you're here already..."

Huh?

Goodwitch sighed with enough intensity that most people would have assumed that she was in genuine pain.

"Ruby Rose," she began. "You've been invited to attend Beacon Academy this year. If you wish, you'll be joining your sister in initiation a few days from now."

While Goodwitch's expression morphed into a tired frown, Ruby positively squealed with excitement. The contrast was... amusing. Still, he couldn't help but wonder why exactly Ozpin would want Ruby in his school. Eh, it's probably just because she's above her grade in terms of combat.

He gave a small sigh. He wasn't sure what made him distrust the headmaster intrinsically, but his own personality was starting to annoy him. I really need to stop assuming the worst of everything... People are different here, and so is just about everything and anything.

Now if only he wouldn't need to remind himself of that every other day. That would just be amazing.

"You WHAT?" Yang exclaimed, her eyes comically wide and twitching with disbelief. Ruby pumped her first upwards, grinning with excitement. In the corner of the room, Taiyang sat on a kitchen counter, looking both relieved and exasperated at the same time.

"I fought Roman Torchwick and got arrested! But then I got invited to Beacon afterwards by Ms. Goodwitch!" Ruby proclaimed. "So I can attend Beacon in the same year as you and Giyuu! This is gonna be awesome!"

For a brief moment, Yang hesitated, seemingly not sure of how to respond. Then, the girl immediately pulled in Ruby in a chokehold before drilling her knuckles into the excitable girl's forehead. "First of all," Yang began. "This is for fighting one of Vale's biggest freaking crime lords!"

Ruby flailed around in the blonde's grip. "Hey! It wasn't my fault he decided to rob the dust store I was in! And the windows were closed off!" she protested. Huffing, Yang quickly let go before smirking.

"Did you at least kick his ass?" she asked. Ruby grinned.

"Yup!" she said, making a pose. "We were gonna seriously beat him until that weird lady with the fire came out and started attacking us! She was super strong! Even Ms. Goodwitch had trouble trying to fight against her, and she's a Beacon professor!"

Giyuu's mind flashed back to the day's events, the fire manipulating woman clearly embedded in his mind. She was strong. Strong enough that he was sure that she could have taken on upper moon level demons if she wanted to- and had the means to do so, of course.

It was just another example of how far the scales had changed for him.

"Well, it was still dangerous, alright? Let your sis complain about that from time to time. But now that that's done..." Yang said, before shifting her frown to a grin and slapping her knees. "I'm so proud of you! You're gonna be the bees knees, sis! A 15 year old and already in Beacon? Everyone's gonna think you're awesome!" she exclaimed.

Ruby's eyes immediately widened. "The... bees knees?" she muttered.

"Yeah!" Yang grinned. "Everyone's gonna look at you and think, 'Yeah, that Ruby girl? 15 years old and already in Beacon? She's super cool and awesome.' so you're gonna be the bees knees!" she said, imitating... something. Is that meant to sound like an average Beacon student?

"But I don't wanna be the bees knees!" Ruby stammered out. "Is that seriously how people are gonna think of me, Yang? I don't want any kind of knees- I mean, I do want knees of course since it would be bad not to have knees, but..." she trailed off lamely. "You know what I mean! I don't want people to think that I'm special or anything just because I'm younger!"

"But you are special, sis. You're just that good!" Yang said, much to Ruby's chagrin.

Giyuu turned away, tuning out the two sisters as they talked. I've gotten used to it by now I suppose, but they really are expressive. Everyone here in general is really expressive compared to Japan, he noted with a slight degree of melancholy. Is this what life could have been like if we hadn't been threatened? If we didn't have fears of being kidnapped by god knows what every night?

What would his life had been like if that had been the case? Would he have still met Urokodaki and Sabito? Would he have been friends with Shinobu?

He slightly shook his head, dispelling the thoughts, feeling a sudden impulse to leave the house. Standing up, he did exactly that and exited the Rose-Xiao Long household, closing the door gently behind him as he stepped into the empty backyard.

The stars are awfully bright here, he noticed. Even with the strange, broken moon, the more prominent feature of Remnant's night sky was just how bright the stars and the moon were. Remnant's bad days were like the best of days in Japan, excluding the high, mountainous regions.

A surge of emotion swept through his mind. As always, he couldn't identify just what it was. Still, while he couldn't identify his emotions he could certainly identify how they made them feel- which in this case was simply loose. His limbs, his neck, his entire body felt awfully loose. Like he was some sort of puppet that was waiting for the master to let go.

And as soon as it crawled up the back of his neck, it disappeared, almost like it was never there at all. Enough so that he couldn't even remember what the odd looseness had felt like. I just hope whatever this is won't crawl up on me when I'm fighting someone...

Breathing in the fresh, unpolluted air of Patch, Giyuu put a hand on his sword before hesitating and bringing it away. No, he thought. Whatever weird problem that had struck him just now wouldn't disappear just because he meditated with his breathing techniques. The problem may manifest physically, but I'm sure that it's much more of a mental issue than anything.

But how else? he wondered. How would he even begin to try and tackle a problem that he wasn't even sure was real or not?

A sound echoed next to him. Giyuu turned around to see Taiyang Xiao Long emerge out of the house door, a curious expression on his face as he stepped towards him. Hm? Giyuu perked up, raising an eyebrow. He looked pretty... off, earlier. Maybe he wants some fresh air?

"You ok there?" Taiyang asked.

Giyuu nodded. "Yes," he said. "I came out for some fresh air and... er..." he paused. "Your daughters are energetic." he finally said. Taiyang chuckled, leaning back against one of the house's walls.

"Yeah, that they are." he said. "I came to check up on you since you looked off earlier. Got something bothering you?"

Giyuu began to shake his head ever so slightly before hesitating. I suppose that if that strange feeling is some sort of... weird version of a fever in Remnant or something, he would know, he mused. "I had a strange feeling." he said. "Like a looseness that crawled up my backside. Is this some disease or infection here that I need to be aware of?"

Taiyang frowned before shaking his head. "Sure doesn't sound like it. I mean, you're far away from home, right? You might just miss the place. With the Torchwick situation and everything, we've all had a long day, right?" he said, scratching the side of his face. "When we heard the news today, Yang was seriously worried, you know? I had to physically restrain her from going to Vale herself."

Giyuu nodded absentmindedly. That does sound like something Yang would do.

Taiyang continued. "Anyways, yeah. I think you're just feeling homesick, kid." he concluded, before smiling amusedly. "We could get a medical checkup on you if you really want. You should see the stuff they can do with dust here since you seem so interested in that."

"I... think I'll be fine, but thank you." Giyuu replied, raising a hand in refusal. Still, I don't see how I could be homesick out of all things. It's not like there's much in Japan to miss...

"Well, why don't you tell me about where you come from?" Taiyang offered. "And not like the semantic details and whatnot, but how you think of it. I'm not really the best at this, but I did it with Yang and Ruby back when..." he trailed off. "...Back when they were sad."

Giyuu felt his lips twitch upwards, feeling a wave of emotion threatening to sweep over him. Taiyang Xiao Long was kind. Almost too kind, in fact. Still...

"I don't think that's nessecary," he said, giving a light bow. "But thank you for the offer."

The older man shrugged. "Oh well." he exhaled out, pausing for what felt like an hour before continuing onwards. "Listen..." he began. "I get that you're not really the emotional type like Yang and Ruby are, and you seem like you have a pretty good head on your shoulders, and I guess you're technically only a guest..."

Giyuu raised an eyebrow. Was that meant to be a compliment? If so, it's a strange one. Perhaps a phrase people say here?

"But," Taiyang continued. "You can talk to me if you have anything you wanna talk about, alright? I er, I guess I know what it's like to feel stranded out in the middle of nowhere." he said, pausing for a moment before forming a wry grin. "Maybe we could get Qrow in as well. Get out the booze and whatnot."

For what it was worth, spilling out his life story in front of Qrow Branwen did make for a fairly amusing mental image. Giyuu gave a small smile at the thought. Still, a question egged at his mind, and he wondered whether asking it would be a good idea or not.

Finally, he decided to simply go with the idea. After all, Taiyang didn't seem like the type to get angry.

"Have you lost a home, Mr. Xia... Taiyang?" he asked. In response, the older man gave him a small smile that seemed to portray a wave of much more... melancholy emotions.

"One really important lesson you learn to respect the more you grow up," Taiyang answered. "Is that home isn't always limited to a place, kid."

Ah.

Giyuu nodded, not quite sure of what to say next. He had wondered once or twice where Ruby and Yang's mother was, but he had completely forgotten about that particular query due to the chaos of the past few weeks. I suppose that at the very least, now I know.

"Apologies," he finally said. Taiyang waved his hand in a brushing motion.

"It's fine, kid." he said, waving his hand. "It was a while back anyway, and it's not like I can blame you for being curious. Still, I do hope you'll take me up on that offer sometime. I could really use a drinking partner around here that doesn't get as crazy as Qrow."

"Don't you have Yang?" Giyuu pointed out.

Taiyang grinned at him, this time a much more amused one. "Don't ever tell Yang I told you this," he almost whispered. "But she actually can't take that much alcohol."

Giyuu coughed. "Although I appreciate the offer, I'm not particularly strong to alcohol either." he said.

"You've tried it?" Taiyang asked, looking genuinely surprised. Giyuu shrugged.

"Once or twice. My experiences weren't... great." he flinched.

Then, Taiyang smirked. "See?" he pointed out. "That was a detail you just shared. Now that wasn't so hard, was it?"

Giyuu paused, the realization striking him like a hammer. Finally, he managed out a small smile. "No, it wasn't," he said, feeling a wave of emotion wash over him. This family seriously took in a random stranger and helped out this much. Is this what people are like when things aren't harsh and scarce?

He brushed the question aside. That wasn't important. Not right now.

"Mr. Xiao Long," Giyuu called out. "When I go to Beacon..." he trailed off. "I'll help Ruby and Yang any way I can. I'll help you as well if you request it as much as possible." he concluded, feeling sure of himself for what seemed like the first time since he had arrived in Remnant.

He didn't have money, and he could do chores fairly well, but he was still indebted to the Xiao Long family. And there was no way he was going to be able to sit by and let such a debt go unpaid.

Taiyang chuckled. "Seriously kid, you don't owe me anything. We're not financially struggling, and honestly it's pretty fun having you around." he said. "Corny as it sounds, my gran used to say that friends didn't charge each other. That their presence was the best repayment anyone could ever have. So don't worry about it, kid."

Their presence being repayment enough? Giyuu thought. What a baffling idea.

Even in a place like Remnant where people were kinder, thinking like that was the equivalent of shooting yourself in the foot. Killing yourself because of your own nonchalant generosity. That was something that would remain a fact as long as humans existed- unless somehow they were magically removed of all evil traits.

And yet, I can't help but admire that way of thinking, can't I?

He had been shocked when Ruby had spent her money to buy food for others, as small as a deed it was. He had been shocked when Taiyang had freely offered his home to him. And it wasn't a bad shock too. Instead it was the type of shock that arose when people did deeds that made him respect them.

He on the other hand would never get past his own obstacles in his thinking. His first instinct being needless distrust of everything and everyone. He would never be able to be as nonchalantly altruistic as Ruby or Taiyang. Never be as simple or good as a person as they were. Even now, it was almost a bit disturbing how he knew how his mindset would keep him alive- and yet he wished he had one that would much more easily get him killed.

What in the world was that supposed to indicate?

How would I have turned out if I was born here as well? he wondered for the second time that night. Would he have turned out as freely generous as some of the people here? Would he have turned out to be someone he right now could look at and admire?

"Well Giyuu," Taiyang said, interrupting his thoughts. "It's been nice. But I'm gonna have to check up on the girls. You gonna stay out here for a while longer or come back?"

Giyuu paused before nodding. "I'll go back as well." he said, brushing away the strange, complex mixture of thoughts that had accumulated within his mind. At least I'll be at Beacon soon, he thought. Then at the very least he would have physical problems thrown at him instead of being forced to do mental gymnastics.

And he was fairly confident that he was much better at slicing through monsters than jumping through hoops in his mind. Once again, sword-based communication was seriously turning out to be the easiest way of doing things.

Now if only I could get better at just about everything else...

Ozpin grimaced. After a good few days of searching for the encampment, following various clues and wild goose chases across the continent, he had finally zeroed in on Raven's current location. Now his only problem was actually getting her to talk with him. As far as he was aware, Raven wasn't outright hostile towards him to the point of being physically violent at first glance. Still, trying to set up a conversation with her would be... hard.

And frankly, could he blame her? He was someone with countless years and experiences accumulated across his lifetimes, and as a result was generally extremely in control of his emotions. Almost to a fault, in fact. So really, the thing that had wedged the two of them apart was only a perspective difference for him, but for Raven, it was most likely something much more... emotionally charging.

Enough for her to be hostile to him even to this day. Or maybe that wasn't something with him as it was simply Raven holding long grudges. But either way the same obstacles applied. He hadn't talked to Raven in ages. In fact, it was most likely that his quest for information would be a failure.

Still, he had to give it a shot. With Nichirin suddenly appearing in front of his eyes, the white fang becoming more and more aggressive, and generally everything... Change was on the horizon. Change meant opportunities that Salem could exploit. And Ozpin would be damned if he would let Salem win after throwing every inch of his soul to trying to stop her for so long.

Taking a deep breath, Ozpin cut through the last of the bushes, revealing himself to the secret encampment. As he had expected, Raven was already there. In the middle of the camp, the leader of the bandit clan looked at him impassively while leaning on a large boulder.

"Ozpin." she called out, a hint of venom in her voice.

"Raven." he responded back.

The two remained in silence for what felt like forever. Opzin stared at his former student, not daring to flinch as the clan leader stared back. Remember, he reminded himself. Raven demands strength. And it had paid off for her too. As much as he hated to admit it...

If she and I were to clash right now, I'm not sure who would come out as the winner.

"Why are you here?" Raven began with a barely hidden glare. Ozpin narrowed his eyes, returning her gaze with an iron clad stare.

"I need to talk to you, Raven." he said. "There are some questions that only you can answer right now."

Raven scoffed. "And what exactly makes you think I'll answer them?" she asked. "I thought you knew better than to pretend we're still on speaking terms with each other, headmaster." she said. "Or perhaps is your memory failing you? Because I thought I made it quite clear that you were going to stay out of my business."

"The winds are moving faster, Raven." Ozpin responded. "Change is on the horizon. The queen is on the move once more. And as much as you seem to want to deny it-"

"The only one in denial here is you, Ozpin." Raven snapped. "How many years has it been now? How many lifetimes of effort? Have all the lives you put to the slaughter been worth it? Have you made any sort of leeway against Salem yet?" she asked. "If you seriously think you can defeat her-"

"If not for the efforts we've made, Remnant would be gone by now." Ozpin pointed out. But he was already well aware that this argument was only going to end one way.

Raven laughed. "Great job, headmaster." she mocked. "You've barely held onto the edge for millennia."

"I'm not asking for your help." Ozpin snapped, ending the argument right there and then. "Not directly, anyway. All I need is some questions answered. After that I'll leave you to your business as always. You're not going to lose anything here, Raven."

The Branwen stared at him strangely, almost as if she intended to disassemble his parts to study them. "And how can I be assured that you aren't trying to slide me back into your cause?"

"I don't see how a simple set of questions can do that." Ozpin answered. "Letting your paranoia control every aspect of-"

"Shut up." Raven snapped. "Give me your questions. I'll see whether I feel like answering them or not."

Ozpin nodded. It was better than nothing at the very least.

"Alright. Have you ever seen a blade made from Nichirin before?" he asked without hesitation. Immediately, the Branwen's eyes snapped up to him, meeting his gaze. For what it was worth, she did look fairly surprised, which frankly he counted as a small victory.

"What?" she hissed. "What kind of utterly moronic question is that? That metal hasn't been obtainable for decades!"

Ozpin nodded. "I'm quite aware, Raven. If you forgot, I was there when the Island was swarmed. And yet a young man came into my office the other day with a sword that was made of the old metal. A metal that was only accessible in- what I knew at the time as the founding island of the Branwen clan."

There. The bait's out.

Raven narrowed her eyes, clenching her fists as she exhaled deeply. "I think you better get comfortable, headmaster." she said. "Because I might just have some questions of my own."

"For your information," Raven began. They had moved into one of the tents now. "There's no way anyone could have gotten hold of a Nichirin weapon. Even before the mountain was overrun, it was the property of my clan. Only the Branwen clan could get past the guards to traverse the mountain and get it, and only we knew how to forge it properly."

"Folding the metal, right?" Ozpin offered. "Mayhaps your clan lost a blade? Or gave it to someone else?"

"Impossible." Raven scoffed. "We don't simply give away things. If we did, it would have been listed in the records. Your student probably has a fraud. Any real Nichirin weapon hasn't been used for ages, Ozpin. All of them are in our vaults, and nobody gets access to our vaults."

"What makes you so confident?" Ozpin asked. Raven smirked.

"You were there during the fall, weren't you?" she said. "As of right now, if you want to access our hidden vault, you would need to go through three days of constant, uninterrupted running. There's no rest for anyone in Arian. Especially in the mountain region."

"Ah." Ozpin exhaled. "But I assure you, that blade was real. I know the properties of the metal, Raven."

Raven frowned. "Any blade can be painted with a color." she rebutted.

"It was folded too." he pointed out.

"Why are you so interested in this anyway?" Raven snapped at him. "What in the world does this have to do with anything of your interest?"

Ozpin smiled. "Wouldn't that be better for you?" he asked. Raven burst out with a wave of bitter laughter.

"Maybe if I trusted you, yes." Raven said. "But as you know quite well by now, I don't. I've been duped by your foolish plans one too many times, Ozpin. I'm no longer your pawn to simply wave around." she said. "Now, you might as well reveal what you really came here for. The chat about the Nichirin was interesting and grabbed my attention, I must admit. But that wasn't what you really came here for, wasn't it?"

Ozpin shook his head, sighing. "Unfortunately for you, that is what I really came here for." he said, Raven raising an eyebrow with doubt. "Both you and I know of Salem's patterns by now, Raven. One thing that can be passed off as unassuming could lead to the herald of much greater things. Change is on the horizon, and the reappearance of a lost metal is simply the tip of the iceberg."

He narrowed his eyes. "And that is why I need answers. No details can be ignored. So Raven, is there any other way you can obtain Nichirin metal other than the mountain?"

Raven shook her head. "No, there isn't. There's only one place in Remnant cold enough to generate that metal." she stated. "Do you have your answers now?"

Ozpin sighed. "It seems not." he said, a slightly smug smile rising in Raven's face.

"Nothing quite hits you hard like the truth, doesn't it Ozpin?" she mocked. Ozpin narrowed his eyes.

"You know just as well as I do that this isn't a cause for celebration, Raven." he said. "Regardless of whether you like it or not, Salem is coming and the winds indicate that she will be coming soon. Deny being a pawn of mine if you wish, but don't assume that you're any more free now than you were then, being a slave to your own anger."

Raven's expression darkened. "This was leading to this all along, wasn't it?" she asked. "I thought that maybe you wouldn't try and pull me into your game again, Ozpin. But I suppose once again my standards for people are too high." she said. "I'll give you ten minutes to leave this camp and leave my sight."

She put a hand on her sword, Omen.

"The next time you try and come to find me, you'll face nothing but a blade." she warned. "Now leave! And stay out of my business this time."

Ozpin frowned. "What you're trying to do, Raven," he began. "It won't last long. Letting your own anger enslave you is no better than-"

"OUT!" she yelled, standing up. Ozpin did the same, deciding not to push his luck further and stepping out of the tent. Raven didn't follow him through. I suppose that means it's my time to leave, he noted as he walked out of the path he had made to the camp.

After a good amount of walking, he sighed. That expedition had been... useless. It hadn't confirmed any theory as much as it had denied a couple. And that meant that there were at least dozens of possibilities still left open. And his relationship with Raven had... worsened, if that had even been possible until now.

Poor Glynda, he thought. He had left her with piles of paperwork while he had gone off on a wild duck chase. Even if the woman seemed to practically enjoy filling out the forms, it would surely be an awfully tiring ordeal. And Tomioka... Tomioka didn't trust him. Ozpin was absolutely sure of that.

Could it be a false alarm? he wondered. Am I simply reading into things too much?

No, Salem was coming. That was an eventuality that was always there. It was only a matter of when and how, and Ozpin's gut had never betrayed him on the former part. But for the first time in a long while, he was woefully uninformed on just how things would play out.

The Queen had gotten better at disguising herself, hiding her tracks.

Raven had told him that he had been hanging on to the edge for millennia, and frankly she had been correct, at least to some degree.

He could only hope that this wasn't going to be the time where the small, flimsy bar he had hung onto wouldn't break away.

Chapter Text

In the end, the ride to the bullheads ended up being a strange affair mixed between positivity and sadness. Both Yang and Ruby were excited, that much was obvious, but there was still an aura of something much more solemn that pulsated more and more through the air as the bullhead station drew ever closer. This is the first time that this family is going to be separated like this, isn't it? Giyuu noted.

The entire ride took just over ten minutes before they found a parking spot. Taiyang visibly grinned in the front seat, his face reflecting off the car's front window as he exited the vehicle. Yang went next, opening the door with Ruby speeding through it soon afterwards.

Giyuu hesitated for a split second before proceeding to exit the vehicle as well.

Immediately, Ruby became a red blur as she sped her way to her father, leaving a trail of red petals behind her as she squeezed Taiyang with what Giyuu was sure was an almost concerning amount of force. The man wheezed for a brief moment before smiling and returning the embrace.

"I'm gonna miss you so much dad!" Ruby exclaimed. Taiyang laughed gently, ruffling the girl's hair as she let go and stepped back. "I'll write to you every day!" Ruby then declared. Much to her dismay however, Taiyang immediately flicked her on the forehead, chuckling.

"Try and write your homework assignments first before you do that, Ruby." he chided, raising a finger. "I heard that Glynda's especially strict these days."

Ruby frowned for a brief moment before Taiyang brought her into one last short embrace. "Stay safe, alright?" Taiyang said with a grin. "Remember to not eat more than 12 cookies a day," at this, Ruby looked positively appalled, "and listen to your sister."

"You hear that sis? I'm your parent from now on." Yang jabbed as Ruby seemingly reluctantly seperated from her father. "I'll see you soon, dad." Yang then said before mischievously grinning. "I mean, if I'm gone you wouldn't have any friends left to-"

"Oi!" Taiyang interrupted with a pseudo-glare before mockingly raising his hands up in the air. "I'm not gonna see her in half a year and this is how my daughter treats me." he chided, placing a hand on his chest in an exaggerated gesture. The man then stepped closer and gave Yang an embrace as well.

"Take care of Ruby, alright?" Taiyang said, releasing his daughter soon afterwards.

"Only if you promise not to turn into Qrow while I'm gone!" Yang jabbed back.

For a brief moment, Taiyang's expression looked positively aghast before he raised his hand in a waving motion. "Yeah yeah, make fun of the poor old man all you want." he said before shifting his expression to a much more solemn one. "I better not hear a report from Ozpin about how you caused thousands of lien worth of property damage during the first week of school, young lady."

Yang choked at that.

From there on out, the family walked to the bullheads to Vale with Giyuu following closely behind. Since it was technically early morning the station was empty and they were able to pass through the gates with relative ease compared to previous days.

Finally, they reached the departure area where a single black vehicle seemed to wait for them.

Yang sighed. "So this is it, huh?" she muttered. "From here on out we're really gonna be going to Beacon."

"Don't worry too badly. You're gonna do great there," Taiyang said, reassuring them with a confident smile and crossing his arms. "I mean I don't wanna brag, but I did pretty great in Beacon. So you two better do at least twice as well as your old man, alright?"

"Oh you bet we're gonna do well." Yang said, raising a single fist in the air. Taiyang did the same, and soon after the father and daughter pair had bumped their fists together. "I'll be calling you all the time as well, dad." Yang then said. Taiyang opened his mouth to interrupt but the younger blonde continued with a grin. "And screw homework."

Taiyang sighed. "You know, sometimes I really wish you were a bit less like how I was as a kid."

"Love ya too dad." Yang laughed as Ruby stepped forward towards her and the bullhead.

"Alright now get going, all three of you. "Wouldn't wanna be late for orientation day, right?" Taiyang said, stepping backwards before pausing and continuing. "She would be proud of both of you right now." he finally added after a brief moment.

Ah right, Giyuu noted, his mind flashing back to the conversation that had taken place a few days ago.

"...Are you going to be ok?" he asked, speaking for the first time since the beginning of the car ride. He seems fine, but since this should be the first time they're separating like this... so he'll be completely alone, and Ruby going away must have counted as a shock as well...

"Huh? Me?" Taiyang asked, turning towards him with a raised eyebrow. Giyuu nodded, the slightest degree of apprehension beginning to creep into his body language. After all, this isn't the first time I've seen someone that only looked well adjusted on the outside.

There were too many stories of demon slayers either leaving the corps or committing suicide. While Giyuu frankly didn't believe that Taiyang Xiao Long would do either of those things...

To his surprise, Taiyang let out a burst of laughter. Giyuu tilted his head to the side, a faint curiosity lighting up his mind. Soon after, the man stopped, casting a knowing grin at him. "Sorry," Taiyang apologized. "But it's just nice to know that you're worried. I seriously can't believe I half expected you to be some broody kid."

Giyuu raised an eyebrow. What?

"And don't worry," Taiyang said. "I'll be completely fine. You should really start worrying about yourself instead, since you should be way behind on academics."

Giyuu shrugged. At the very least the subject matter was interesting to him. He would make do as long as that held true.

Raising his head up, he noticed Taiyang had offered him an outstretched hand, waiting for him to shake it.

He grasped it and shared one last gesture with the man who had assisted him the most during his (albeit short) time on Remnant before following Yang and Ruby to the bullhead. Taking a seat next to the back of the vehicle, he twisted towards the back before his lips twitched into a small smile.

He remembered to fasten the seatbelt this time.

Looking around the crowd of the bullhead to Beacon, Weiss Schnee felt like she was slowly beginning to understand the differences that seperated Beacon and Atlas, along with the respective kingdoms that they were in. It was the small details at first, things like colors and shapes.

Weiss had been to Atlas Academy a few times, courtesy of General Ironwood, and it had been almost entirely homogeneous. The buildings were entirely symmetrical, the colors were varying shades of grey, and the students were all dressed in the same white and blue uniform. Weapons were typically limited to rather normal looking ones, with some exceptions popping up every now and then.

Beacon was different. Beacon was filled with an almost dizzying number of color schemes in its students, with many more students wielding strange or exotic looking weapons. It was as if Atlas was a massive block of ice, and Beacon was what that ice could be if cracked open and melted down.

She wasn't sure which she preferred. Although she considered herself a fairly structured person and preferred structured things, she could see now that Beacon was the type of place that her father would be most opposed to, which was always a point in its favor.

Still, it was truly a wonder how the school could be considered one of the best. Weiss had heard much about the headmaster's eccentricities in his decisions, and she had to wonder whether there was actually a master manipulator behind the strangeness. Especially considering Ozpin had been known to employ strange initiations to decide huntsman teams... was there some sort of meticulous manipulation behind a façade of randomness?

Could she simply leave it up to that possibility to match her with a good teammate? If she struggled against a possible careful plan on the part of the headmaster, would she accidentally shoot herself in the foot with an ill-matched team? Or was it that she had to struggle against random luck to maximize the chances to her favor?

What factors had led to Beacon's best teams in the past? Was it careful manipulation from the headmaster hiding behind a mask of "luck," was it the individual wills of the students trying to maximize their chances, or was it a combination of both?

Weiss's eyes narrowed together, her face scrunching up in thought. Still, what could I do to maximize my own chances without potentially sabotaging myself? she wondered. After all, she couldn't be the first person to wonder just how did Beacon's teams succeed, right?

I suppose that the best harmless idea would be to scout out the potential candidates and judge the situation when it comes around...

She nodded to herself. Right. You can do this, Weiss. Just be prepared to make critical decisions in advance and recognize they're there instead of making the decisions themselves earlier than they're meant to be made. So being aware of that would put me at a high ground!

Trying to look as inconspicuous as possible, Weiss briefly scanned over the crowd, her eyes trying to take in the little details of how the prospective students would fare as a teammate and a combatant. As her eyes immediately overlooked the students with strange color schemes, she mentally slapped her forehead.

Right, I have to get over color biases! This isn't Atlas, and looks don't always indicate skill!

Without turning her head, she shifted her eyes to the top left corner of the bullhead, her eyes slightly widening as she gazed upon a redhead she had seen numerous times before. I- Is that Pyrrha Nikos? But why would she be going to Beacon and not Haven?

Weiss shook her head. This wasn't the time to contemplate such things. Regardless of why Pyrrha Nikos was in Beacon and not Haven, the fact that she was in Beacon was what was important. Noting her appearance in her mind, Weiss continued her search.

Moments later, her eyes fell upon two students who looked vastly similar. Twins, maybe? she wondered. The big difference however- apart from their clothes- was that one had pink eyes and a pink streak in his hair, whereas the other's eyes were blue with no such streak.

Plus they were sitting apart, so it was more likely that they simply looked similar to one another. Shame, she thought. Siblings, and twins especially would most likely work well together in a battle.

Her eyes fell on her next target- another boy, this one with broad shoulders, full body armor and a mace. As soon as her eyes fell on him, his hands were raised upwards in a smooth, practiced motion that swept his hair backwards. Although the armor is nice, he looks like he's spent more time slicking his hair than he has practicing being a huntsman. Pass.

As she scanned the bullhead looking for her next target however, a feminine voice interrupted her search, a hologram of a blonde woman appearing at the center of the bullhead. Oh! Weiss mentally exclaimed. That must be-

"Hello, and welcome to Beacon academy." the hologram said. Weiss raptly turned her attention to it. "My name is Glynda Goodwitch. You are among a privileged few who have received the honor of being selected to attend this prestigious academy. Because our world is experiencing an incredible time of peace, as future Huntsmen and Huntresses, it shall be your duty to uphold it. All of you standing here today have demonstrated the strength and the courage needed for such a task, and now it is our turn to provide you with the knowledge and training to protect our world.

The hologram disappeared as a signal appeared in place of it, indicating that the bullhead was about to land soon. Keeping in her disappointment, Weiss turned to the side and checked that her seatbelt was properly fastened. Oh well, she thought. She would get a chance to observe her possible future teammates later. For now, there was an orientation to get to.

Yang was... fast.

Very fast.

Fast enough to the point where she had seemingly effortlessly melded into the dashing crowd, heading off to god knows where. On one hand, Giyuu understood her motivations. Having Ruby solely rely on her presence for companionship would fester some very pressing issues later on.

On the other hand, her disappearance raised a much more pressing, urgent problem. The problem being that now he was stuck in what was about as good as the middle of nowhere with no idea where to go. Beside him, Ruby's mouth was wide agape, her expression somewhere between shock and despair.

"She just... ran away..." Ruby muttered out lamely, before turning to him with pleading eyes. "Giyuu, please tell me at least you know where we're supposed to go."

Giyuu looked at the horizon and the castle-like Academy that was ahead of them. But as far as he was aware, the only place he knew how to get to was Ozpin's tower, and even then it was only via bullhead. Orientation most certainly wasn't going to take place in Ozpin's office however, and thus his useless piece of knowledge was rendered even more useless.

He frowned. Would missing out or being late to the orientation create problems for them? Although, he thought. I guess I'm not too invested in Beacon. Still, Ruby seems to be much more... into this. And I did promise Taiyang that I would help them anyway I can...

But what if there was no way he could help at all?

"Oh no," Ruby began to mutter, something that was certainly not helping the incoming migraine Giyuu could already feel approaching. "What do we do? We're lost in Beacon. We're lost in Beacon. What if we miss orientation? Are we gonna get expelled if we miss orientation?" she sputtered out with inhuman speed as she paced around in a circle.

"Ruby," he called out, the girl evidently not hearing him as she continued her panicked pacing. "I think it would be better if we go indoors before-" he trailed off before his eyes widened. Oh god.

Giyuu noticed the girl with the trolley a split second too late, sending both Ruby and the luggage inside said trolley crashing down onto the green grass. Trying his absolute best to keep calm, the water Hashira exhaled deeply, pinching his forehead. I can feel the headache already...

Immediately, Ruby stood straight up, not bothering to dust herself off as she rapidly raised her hands in an apologetic waving motion. "I'm so sorry!" she exclaimed at the white haired pale girl looming above her. Well, although looming is a bit of an overstatement... "I didn't mean to-"

"Sorry?" the white haired girl interrupted, venom in her voice. "Sorry!? Do you know just how much damage your clumsy accident could have caused!?"

Meanwhile, Ruby had bent down to pick up one of the girl's cases that had gone crashing down when she had bumped into them. Hastily, the white haired girl snatched it from her grasp. "Give me that!" she snapped as she put down the case onto the trolley once more.

"Uhh..." Ruby trailed off once more. "I'm really sorr-"

"Do you even know what this is!?" the white haired girl snapped once more, interrupting her while holding up and shaking a red vial. Giyuu frowned. I should probably say something... but what am I supposed to say here? he wondered. "This is dust!" the white haired girl continued. "Inflammable dust mined and purified from the Schnee quarry! Do you know how priceless this is?"

"Please stop." Giyuu finally interrupted, trying- and mostly succeeding- to keep his current frustration from entering his voice. "I'm sure it was an honest mistake." he explained.

"An honest mistake that could have ruined a priceless amount of precious dust! Mind you, I need this dust for initiation!" the girl snapped back. "What if the dust had exploded when she crashed? How would you take accounta-"

"But it hasn't, so there's no need for all this." Giyuu responded, his control over his voice slightly slipping. The people in Patch had been at the very least bearable for the most part, but this girl was slowly getting on his nerves. Does she seriously not have anything better to do? At the very least she could try and not be so harshly angry at a mistake out of all things...

It was like a baseball bat to the head that had reminded him of the dozens of times Shinobu had made fun of him for being antisocial. She would be much better at dealing with someone like this... he dully noted.

Thankfully, the girl seemed to calm down, exhaling as her anger seemingly dispersed from her expression. "Fine." she said. "I apologize for acting in a such an... undignified manner. My name is Weiss Schnee, and I hope we get along amicably in the future."

Giyuu simply nodded as he turned to Ruby once more before raising an eyebrow. What in the world is she doing? Sniffing the air? he wondered.

But before he could finish the thought, Ruby sneezed.

Safe to say, after things had (quite literally) cooled down, he didn't expect to make friends with Weiss Schnee anytime soon.

Pyrrha Nikos sighed.

She had initially chosen to go to Beacon Academy to avoid her popularity in Mistral, considering Vale was the least invested in Mistral's tournaments out of all four kingdoms. Still, it seemed as if she had underestimated by a rather large margin just how much Beacon would know about her.

Even a kingdom away, the title of "Invincible Girl" followed her like an ever obedient pet that refused to let go. Just a couple hours ago in the bullheads she could swear that she had seen a girl straight up stare at her for a good few moments before hastily looking away.

It's the cereal, isn't it? she silently grumbled. Of course out of all things possible, the single photoshoot I did is coming back to bite me now...

Still, at the very least, the other parts of Beacon she had looked forward to were starting to show. The students and staff all looked diverse, and Pyrrha suspected that at the very least Beacon would have an education curriculum that would keep her on her toes.

Hm, she wondered. Should I try... just talking to someone, maybe? Would her luck extend to a point where she would be able to pick a random person from the crowd and they would happen to not instantly recognize her? At the very least it should be worth a try, right?

Hesitating for only a moment, Pyrrha walked into the crowd, scanning it for... what? A country boy, maybe? Does anyone have a cowboy hat in this room? Or maybe...

She slumped.

Gah! This room is so crowded! How am I supposed to pick out just one person from everyone here...? she sighed, before raising her head and huffing. No, I can do this. This isn't even that hard! Compared to my first Mistral Tournament, this should be a breeze! Come on Pyrrha, you can do this!

Scanning the room one more time, her eyes fell onto a girl standing alone next to one of the tables. She seems like she's on her lonesome... I guess I'll try talking to her, Pyrrha thought as she began marching towards the blonde girl with country...ish clothes.

Walking towards the girl, Pyrrha put on a friendly smile before raising a hand and waving. "Hello!" she greeted cheerily as the blonde girl turned towards her. She doesn't seem like she recognizes me for now! she noted, her mood brightening.

"Oh hi!" the blonde girl greeted back with a grin. "By any chance, you seen a girl around here somewhere? She looks pretty young with black and red hair, a black and red dress and a red weapon. She's also probably with a spiky haired kid with weird clothes." she said. Frowning, Pyrrha shook her head. Is she looking for someone?

"Is it a friend?" Pyrrha slowly asked. The blonde girl rubbed the back of her head sheepishly.

"Er, it's my little sister." she said. "I wanted her to make some friends so I kinda... left her at the campus entrance?" she finished with a sheepish smile, slightly raising her hands. "Now that I think about it, uh... it may have not been the best idea ever."

Pyrrha cocked her head sideways. "Why?" she asked.

The blonde girl scratched her head. "She just has a weird habit of..."

The door to the ballroom suddenly swung open widely, revealing a disheveled looking girl that fit Yang's description. She was also accompanied by a black haired boy with clothes she immediately distinctly recognized as traditional Mistralian along with a blonde boy in armor.

"...getting herself into trouble." the blonde girl finished with a nervous smile.

Suddenly, the disheveled looking girl turned into a mass of red matter that sped towards their direction, stopping about a meter in front of Yang and leaving a trail of flowers behind her. Hands on her knees, she huffed for a good moment before looking up with an accusatory glare.

"You left me!" the girl lamented, pointing a finger at the blonde. "And I exploded!" she added. Isn't that a bit... strange in terms of what to prioritize? Pyrrha wondered.

"Yikes, you had a meltdown already?" the blonde girl gawked.

"Nope." the black haired Mistralian boy deadpanned, joining the conversation with what could only be interpreted as a tired sigh. "She quite literally exploded."

"Wait," the blonde girl demurred. "Exploded? Like as in, fire and smoke go boom boom exploded?"

The red haired girl glared at the blonde. "Yes Yang, I literally exploded a hole in front of the school!" she snapped. "I tripped over some crabby girl's luggage and then she yelled at me, and then she calmed down but then I sneezed, and then I exploded, and then she yelled at me again, and I felt really, really bad but I also just really wanted her to stop yelling at me!"

As the girl continued ranting, Pyrrha noticed a familiar angry looking white haired girl approaching the group from the corner of her eye, momentarily freezing. There's no way... she can't be the one, right?

For a brief moment however, the two made eye contact, and Pyrrha distinctly noticed the girl's expression becoming slightly less angry and the girl's footsteps getting noticeably slower. Is it that she doesn't want to look angry in front of me? Pyrrha wondered. I suppose she did seem to recognize me in the bullhead...

Suddenly, the white haired girl stopped before turning around and walking the other way, mildly shaking her head. Pyrrha cocked her head with curiosity. What... just happened?

Meanwhile, Ruby had concluded her... tale of woe? Pyrrha personally wasn't sure just what to call it. Still, by the end of it the girl had seemingly calmed down a fair amount. "Yang, what do I do?" the girl lamented. "It's super weird not knowing anyone here and I have zero friends!"

Beside her, Pyrrha swore she saw the Mistralian boy's left eye twitch. It was a tiny movement, but still noticable.

"Hey, you have a friend standing right next to you!" the blonde girl, Yang, replied with a grin before facing the black haired boy. "And don't think I didn't notice that by the way." she added, although much more quietly. The black haired boy's eye twitched again.

Is the eye twitching a common occurrence with him?

"Yeah but I'm pretty sure Weiss counts as a negative friend..." Ruby cried, before perking up. "Oh right, I guess Jaune's a friend! So I have one friend so far!"

Pyrrha's lips spread into a grin. It was rather comforting to know that at least one person in Beacon was going through a similar issue to hers. Although I don't think the root causes are similar... she noted. Suddenly, an idea appeared in the forefront of her mind.

Holding out a hand towards the younger girl, Pyrrha gently smiled.

"I can be your friend too if you want." she stated before her mind could protest. Perking up, the younger (?) girl looked up at her, briefly hesitating before suddenly brightening up and cheering.

"Thanks!" the girl exclaimed. "I don't know what your name is but thanks!"

Pyrrha let out a chuckle, a slight weight lifting off her chest as Yang looked at her with an amused but thankful expression and the younger girl smiled with glee. "You see that Yang?" she taunted good naturedly. "I just made 3 minus 1 friends! And all without your help!"

"3 friends and 1 enemy, Ruby. Not 3 minus 1 friends." Yang corrected with an amused looking smirk. "Nice job, sis."

Pyrrha smiled at the interaction.

Maybe I could get used to this... she thought.

And then suddenly, a loud 'ahem' echoed through the room as a new voice cut through the noise made by the crowd, effectively silencing them in an instant. Pyrrha turned her head backwards to see the acclaimed headmaster of Beacon, professor Ozpin. He looks... much more scraggly in person, she noted.

"I'll keep this brief." the headmaster began. You have traveled here today in search of knowledge, to hone your craft and acquire new skills, and when you have finished, you plan to dedicate your life to the protection of the people. But I look amongst you, and all I see is wasted energy, in need of purpose, direction."

Pyrrha wasn't sure what quite to make of that particular statement. It's certainly a far cry from Professor Goodwitch's speech inside the bullhead...

"You assume knowledge will free you of this, but your time at this school will prove that knowledge can only carry you so far." the headmaster continued, the crowd of students beginning to whisper amongst themselves. "It is now up to you to take the first step."

And then the headmaster turned away from the stage before beginning to walk away. However, after a brief moment, the man turned back and returned to the microphone, clearing his throat once more. He's... smiling? Pyrrha wondered. Or at least that's what it looks closest to...

"A final word of warning, if I may." the headmaster said. "I advise you all to eat a large breakfast tomorrow before initiation begins. I suspect all of you will benefit greatly from one."

With that, Ozpin turned away one last time before walking away from the stage.

Frowning, Pyrrha turned towards her newfound companions. (?) All of them wore similar expressions of confusion, save for the Mistralian boy whose expression she could only call apathetic. Ah, I guess he's one of the types who aren't very expressive.

"That was one weird speech," Yang commented. Pyrrha nodded as the blonde turned to her. "Oh yeah!" Yang began. "You never told us your name. I'm Yang, my little sis is Ruby, and broody mcbroodface over there is Giyuu."

Pyrrha hesitated. What if they recognize my name? she wondered. Still, she had a prime opportunity to finally make friends. She wouldn't sabotage that by being too afraid to take a simple risk. Inhaling deeply, she introduced herself. "My name is Pyrrha Nikos." she said.

Yang grinned. "Nice to meet ya, Pyrrha." she said, and Pyrrha felt a grin threatening to split her face open.

"It's nice to meet you too," Pyrrha said with a smile.

Maybe coming to Beacon was really the best choice after all.

Ozpin slumped.

Although Glynda had certainly made her best efforts, the paperwork that he had left behind was something that was simply impossible for a single person to clear up. And thus his current predicament involved sorting through the documents of the multiple attendees for this year's initiation.

Next to him, Glynda let out a sigh. "Headmaster, are you sure about this?" she asked for the third time that day. Ozpin turned towards her and smiled.

"Professor Goodwitch, I can assure you that I am quite very sure about this." he stated, slightly grimacing at the woman's deadpan. "Yes, we do need some more time to sort out all this paperwork, but there's more to it than that. After all, it's always nice to switch up initiation every once in a while. It keeps things fresh."

"Keeps things fresh." Goodwitch stated blandly. "Ozpin, you're the only one I know who would say that about dropping children inside a deadly forest."

"Highly trained children, mind you."

The professor didn't respond. Ozpin sighed. "And besides, their safety is totally in control. In fact, it's probably safer than the other years!" he added. "I appreciate the concern Glynda, but really it's no worry at all."

Goodwitch glanced at him for a brief moment before returning to her work, pausing in the middle of it. "Sometimes," she began. "I don't even think I can tell what you have going on inside your head, headmaster." she said. Ozpin gave her a quizzical expression.

"Do I truly come off that way? Like I have a hidden motivation for everything?" he questioned. Goodwitch shrugged.

"Often times, yes." she answered aptly. Ozpin frowned, noting that particular fact down and wondering just exactly why he had never bothered to ask anyone that before. Still, if that is true than perhaps I've been unconsciously taking advantage of it for quite a long time. Hm...

"I think you'll find, Glynda," he began. "That although I do indeed have plans for many things, some things are best when they are simply... left to the wind."

They continued the paperwork in silence.

Chapter Text

Giyuu gazed into the cafeteria. One of the largest areas in the academy, it was definitely an expensive building to make and maintain, with long tables stretching across its area. Behind the glasses and counters were also- naturally- workers that cooked and served food. All in all, it mirrored pretty much what Giyuu had expected of a typical high class academic dining area.

The only problem was that no one was there.

As he stepped into the confines of the building, he couldn't help the twitch of his eye that had occurred an almost unhealthy amount as of late. Am I seriously the very first person in this school to wake up? Even by accident, there has to be at least one other person, right?

Sighing, Giyuu wiped the thought from his mind. It was foolish of him to judge potential huntsmen by the same standards he judged demon slayers. Remnant was a fundamentally different, much more sheltered and convenient world to live in, and although aesthetically the same, huntsmen and demon slayers were functionally different. Still, it was hard for him to break free of judgements and thinking mechanisms he had created for the sake of his own sanity. Mechanisms that had been unfortunately proven to be all too reliable of a judging metric in Japan, as horrible as they had been sometimes.

Slowly, he began to wander the cafeteria. The counters of Beacon's eating area were divided into five groups: Valean dining, Mistralian dining, Atlesean dining, Vacuan dining, and last (and by some specific people, probably the most important) of all, snacks.

From his experiences with Remnant so far, Mistralian food seemed to be most in-line with what he had been used to while living in Japan. Better to play it safe with the diet here, especially considering that nobody seems to know what Initiation will be like, he reminded himself as he began to quicken his pace.

Moving over to the Mistralian counter, he quickly ordered the Remnant equivalent of Miso soup and rice before sitting down at a table with his food and tentatively taking a small bite. It's... certainly not bad. A bit different than what I expected, but it's miso soup all the same.

He took another bite before quickening his pace. Best not to dawdle with eating, he noted to himself as he fell into a familiar pattern and pace with his silverware, eventually closing his eyes shut as the meal began to turn into a mini focusing exercise.

Suddenly, a sound echoed from across him. Giyuu opened his eyes to see an extra food tray across from him, a sandwich and an apple on it and a familiar mug of coffee beside it. Behind it, the headmaster of Beacon Academy took a seat on the cafeteria stool.

Giyuu sat still, his spoon still hovering in mid-air. Eventually, he brought it back to the bowl and took another bite, falling back into his rhythm. Across from him, the headmaster did the same, using his utensils to slice up the sandwich into pieces and bringing them into his mouth.

Hesitantly, Giyuu's eyebrows rose upwards. Is that... the way you're supposed to eat those things? he wondered, opening his mouth to speak before hesitating and promptly deciding against it and slowly closing it back shut. However, the headmaster apparently had different plans.

"I've always liked the Valean food here." Ozpin stated with a matter-of-fact tone. "The Mistralian is good too, I would say. Of course, so is everything else made here. But nothing quite beats the feeling of eating classic Valean food from Valean chefs. I recommend you try it sometime as well, mister Tomioka."

Is he... trying to talk to me about food?

In regards to that particular notion, he... wasn't too sure what to say. In fact, he wasn't even sure what to think.

"Alright." he finally managed to say following a brief pause. The headmaster then let out a chuckle, although Giyuu wasn't sure just exactly why. Finishing his food, he stood up and grabbed the tray before turning around and walking towards the return counter.

As he did so, he began to hear the distinct sound of someone munching on an apple.

"If I may add something of note," Ozpin called out as he approached the counter. "I would recommend you eat something slightly more... filling for your body. As much as I enjoy the delicate taste of soup for breakfast, I'm quite afraid that it's not the best food for when I need to make myself energized."

Giyuu stopped.

"Are you..." he began to say after a pause.

"Giving away a cheat? Not at all," Ozpin interrupted, his glasses twinkling. "What I say now is something that will be relayed to all students when they wake up. You simply awoke at an unexpectedly early time." he said, before smiling and sipping from his coffee mug. "And besides, it should be quite an elementary thing to prepare for initiation with filling foods."

Giyuu sighed. I suppose... he does have a bit of a point. Still...

"Ozpin." Giyuu called out, before quickly correcting himself. "Professor Ozpin." he said. "Will the initiation be threatening to the students' lives?" he asked, gazing into the headmaster's expression. In response, Ozpin got up and waved his hand.

"Not at all, mister Tomioka. You need not worry on that particular part whatsoever, although your concern is appreciated." replied the headmaster. "Beacon takes the safety of its students with upmost severity. We've boasted a zero casualty rate for years, and we don't plan to give that up quite just yet."

Good, Giyuu thought before simply nodding and walking the other direction. He seems to be seriously dedicated on that regard. Still, what even is this mistrust? He hasn't done anything in particular to earn any ire, so why do I feel the need to clarify things this much with him? And even more, is it his problem or mine? Considering how I already have a track record of seeing people in an unintentionally bad light, it's most likely the former, isn't it?

With a sigh, Giyuu proceeded towards the snacks counter before ordering a small pastry that seemed like a more filling food than a bowl of soup. After a moment's hesitation, he ordered a cookie as well for reasons that were frankly incomprehensible to him.

When he turned back, the headmaster's seat was empty and deserted, the man seemingly long gone.

Ruby ran as fast as possible to the cafeteria, mentally slapping herself in the face repeatedly. Stupid, stupid stupid! she repeated in her mind. Because of her stupid grogginess, she was behind everybody else in terms of time now! Well, just a little behind but behind all the same. That was something unacceptable! Underperforming already on the first day...

On one hand, she wanted to use her speed semblance. On the other hand, she couldn't guarantee the safety of the people in her way if she did, and the hallway was super crowded. Standing on the tips of her toes, Ruby gazed out at the crowd, trying to spot Yang's golden shade of blonde hair. Unfortunately, it was nowhere to be found. Whether that was Yang's intentions or just the crowd getting in the way, Ruby had no clue. Either way, she couldn't start out the day badly! Initiation was soon, and things would only get harder!

Ruby felt something bump into her as she fell onto one knee, letting out a frustrated groan. Not good... she reminded herself as she stood back up once more, only to be knocked down onto one knee again by another rushing student bumping into her. Is this why Giyuu wakes up early? To not get bumped into in the hallway?

Inhaling deeply, Ruby recalled the breathing exercise that Giyuu had taught her as an "energy controller," although she still wasn't sure what that exactly meant. Right. Calm breaths. Calm breaths. Calm down Ruby, even if initiation is really close and you're probably gonna be screwed, it's gonna be totally fine. Toooootally fine...

Oh wow, I do feel calmer!

She exhaled. Alright. Maybe I should just try and wait it out until the people pass? she wondered, managing to jump to the side as the crowd went through her. That would mean she would have to be much faster than anyone else in the room to be prepared in line with them.

Thankfully, her semblance was perfect for making up on lost time. She only hoped that the Beacon janitors wouldn't mind too much.

Weiss Schnee exhaled deeply.

Soon was her chance- her only chance to start her journey towards escaping her father's clutches. She had perfect confidence that she was capable of making it into Beacon, but the tiny chance of her not doing so would lead to consequences that were... foreboding. Inhaling deeply again, she felt the rapidly pulsating heartbeats slow down to a much more steady pace.

Right. She could do this.

After inspecting her outfit one last time, she filled Myrtenaster with the necessary vials of dust that she had brought along, opting for gravity, fire, ice and thunder. Then she made sure one last time that all of her dust vials were filled and ready to go. There was no telling what could happen, after all.

Alright. Nothing's misplaced, everything is fine and perfectly good to go.

Standing up, the Schnee heiress equipped her rapier to her belt before exiting the locker room, beginning to make her way towards the Beacon cliffs where initiation would supposedly begin. After that... would come what was sure to be one of the greatest trials of her life thus far.

Wait, is Pyrrha Nikos standing there all alone?

Yang had never quite appreciated the convenience of having her weapons as pseudo fashion bracelets before now, but boy was she glad that they were. The weapon lockers room was a nightmare to navigate, and the fact that Yang didn't ever need to take off her weapon was starting to feel mighty useful.

Turning away from the entrance, she took a moment to inspect the students that had already escaped the mess. A boy with a flaming sword, already swinging it around with a stupid looking smirk? Instant pass. That girl with the gun looks cool though...

Then, from the corner of her eye, a new figure approached that sparked her mind. Oh, that's the one that I tried to make Ruby friends with last time! What was her name again? Jane? Wait, did she even tell us her name? she wondered as the girl's amber eyes briefly made contact with her own.

The girl promptly gave a light nod of recognition before turning right and moving towards the valley where the initiates would gather. Yang's lips bent into a frown. Gee, she's certainly a quiet type...

"Yang! I'm back!" a voice suddenly called out from her back. Yang turned around to see one Ruby Rose, now equipped with her ever-so-adored sniper scythe. With a smirk, Yang gave her sister a wave. She's really here, huh? 15 years old and out of the kiddie shoes already...

As the thought passed her mind, something in her chest tightened. Immediately afterwards, the feeling passed.

Yang grinned. "You ready for this, Rubes?" she asked.

Her sister grinned back. "Yep! No more awkward talking and trying to make friends today! Now, my baby gets to do the talking for me."

Yang nodded, smashing her own palm and fist together as she cleared away her remaining doubts.

Becaon wouldn't know what hit it.

Blake Belladonna stood still.

She knew she would be able to do well in Initiation. She knew that there was no way that she would be outmatched in combat by at least the majority of Beacon students. Looking at them now, they were confident. Cocky. Suave. A far cry from what they would encounter in the future as Huntsmen.

As for her, this was her last chance. Her last chance at escaping everything. She needed this more than anything. If she weren't to pass initiation, she would need to book a flight to Mistral or Vacuo, something that would most likely get her caught and killed.

Was that why under everything, she still felt nervous? Or was it the knowing gaze of the headmaster that had passed her by earlier? The gaze that had raised a thousand questions without giving any answers in return. It had lasted for barely a second, the headmaster smiling and turning away immediately after, but why was it getting to her so badly.

He couldn't possibly know, right?

There was empirically a zero probability that the headmaster could know about her past with the Fang. It wasn't public record, and she had been out with a mask every time she did things with the fang anyway. Still, what if he did know, by some horrible twist of fate?

Her right hand tightened its grip around her weapon's hilt.

No fear.

"Giyuu!" a familiar voice called out from behind him. Giyuu turned around to face one Ruby Rose, enthusiasm plastered on her expression, followed by her sister with a similarly energetic grin. He gave the two sisters a wave before giving a slight bow as well.

"We're supposed to gather here for Initiation, right?" Yang asked as she approached him. Giyuu nodded as she furrowed her brows, looking from side to side. "Where's professor Ozpin though? Isn't he usually here to like... announce these things? That's what dad told me anyway."

Giyuu shrugged. "The rest of the students are here." he stated. "I doubt we're in the wrong place."

"I wonder how the teams are set up..." Ruby commented, placing a finger on her chin before widening her eyes. "Wait, didn't dad say that this stuff was always super random? What if I don't get in the same team as you or Giyuu?" Ruby spoke with a steadily increasing pace.

Yang grinned. "Then you just get to make more friends." she said in a matter-of-fact tone, much to the seeming chagrin of her younger sister.

"Yang, didn't you learn from yesterday? It's a no-good effort..." Ruby countered, trailing off towards the end.

"Well, you met Jaune right? He counts as a friend!" Yang raised a finger.

Ruby huffed. "Yeah, and I also met that crabby girl with the trolley and the quiet girl you made me awkwardly talk to..."

"Attention!" a new, extremely loud voice interrupted. Together with the crowd, Giyuu turned around to see the headmaster of Beacon approaching Beacon's cliff, a device which he assumed was a voice amplifier raised in his hand. Standing behind him was- as always- Glynda Goodwitch, looking as stern as ever.

"Now, some of you may have already learned from parents or teachers who were former Beacon students or staff members the processes behind last year's initiation." Ozpin said, the students clearing out a path for him to reach the upper peak of the cliff. "Rest assured, Beacon is an establishment that values a high standard of education." he continued with the faintest hint of a lopsided smile.

"As such, we have decided to radically change some initiation procedures for this year to truly test your mettle as huntsmen. Not just in controlled combat environments, but in other areas as well." Ozpin stated before raising his other hand, as if giving a signal.

Immediately, a volley of items soared through the sky. Within the blink of an eye, Giyuu found a strange, circular device floating in front of him. Tentatively, he took it in his hand, taking a moment to look at it. I wonder what this does... Although I presume Ozpin plans to explain that as well?

"Please take the devices given to you." Ozpin said. "While you may freely appreciate the devices, I'm quite afraid that Ms. Goodwitch isn't the biggest fan of wasting time, especially when it comes to using her semblance." he continued. "Anyhow, please listen carefully because this will not be repeated to you."

Immediately, the crowd's albeit small whispers fell to a complete silence, the only sound remaining being the wind rustling against the grassy fields.

"Now, please stick the devices you just received anywhere on your clothes, and preferably in an area appropriate for such a serious affair." Ozpin ordered. Hesitating slightly, Giyuu slapped the device onto his right shoulder, widening his eyes as the machine began to glow with a strange white light.

"This year's Beacon initiation task is quite simple. First of all, your partners will be decided by whomever you make eye contact with first once you land." the headmaster continued.

The crowd exploded.

Giyuu distinctly heard Ruby's high pitched, "WHAT?" blaring into his right ear, flinching as the sound registered. Immediately, the girl widened her eyes before waving her hands at a furious pace, muttering incoherently. Giyuu sighed, taking a glance at Ozpin. At least he seems to be waiting for us to quiet down...

"It's fine." Giyuu said, effectively silencing just about anything the younger girl was saying thus far. From the corner of his eye, he also registered Yang with a way too amused grin on her face, closing his eyes and exhaling deeply in acceptance. This is really my life now, huh?

Eventually, the crowd quieted down once more. Ozpin cleared his throat.

"Now, as I've said, your partners will be decided by whomever you first make eye contact with first once you land. From then on, your objective is simple. Go towards the Northern end of the forest. There, you will find an abandoned temple at the end of the path containing several relics. Each pair must choose one, and survive for a day." Ozpin said. "Various items such as food, shelter and water will be scattered throughout the forest, and each and every one of you will be closely monitored for safety."

Survive for a day? I thought he said that-

"The devices that you wear currently are hard light dust generators that can shield you if your aura breaks. However, they do not recharge." Ozpin continued. "For your safety, there are staff members and transports scattered and hidden throughout the forest. If you see one, you will ignore it. Once your aura breaks, the dust generator will be your lifeline. While it's quite durable, the moment you take a single hit you will be considered dead and disqualified, and a staff member will escort you back to the school."

Ah, so that's how he's ensuring safety, Giyuu realized. While I can't say I like it too much, there isn't really a better option either, I suppose. Still, this is starting to sound awfully close to what the demon slayers used to test their new recruits in Final Selection...

"Are there any questions?" Ozpin concluded. After a pause, the headmaster nodded just as a blonde boy raised his hand upwards. "Great, now please line up on the launch pads so we can fling you into the Forest. Parachutes will not be given out, and landing strategies must be devised on your own."

One by one, each of the students began to line up on the platforms on the edge of the cliff. Giyuu stood on one next to a boy that looked eerily like him, the only thing truly separating them being a slight difference in hair length and a pink streak in the boy's hair, as well as eye color. The boy nodded at him. Giyuu nodded back, clutching his sword.

"Get into position, everybody. As headmaster of Beacon Academy, I wish you all godspeed." Ozpin said with a smile. Giyuu fought the urge to sigh. Why does he sound so gleeful about this? Does he seriously enjoy flinging students into a deadly forest?

...

No, of course he does. Why did I expect otherwise?

Giyuu felt like he was beginning to learn more and more about the headmaster of Beacon, or at least the part about the headmaster's eccentrics. Frankly, he wasn't sure whether it gave him a more positive or more negative impression of him. Either way, this is no time to think about this.

"Sir?" someone to the left of him asked. Wait, that sounds like the boy from yesterday. I think his name was Jaune? "What do you mean when you say landing strate-"

And with the sound of a releasing spring, Beacon Academy's prospective students were all flung into the middle of the Emerald Forest.

Jaune Arc screamed as he soared through the air. This is SO not what I signed up for! Why did I do this? Why did I try out for this!?

Where were the other students? Were they just as scared as he was? Jaune looked from side to side, trying his best to keep his eyes open despite the winds blowing against them. No, they're fine! They seem completely in control of the situation... I really screwed up, didn't I?

Right now, it was very likely that he would be dead the moment he hit the ground. And how far down is that? A hundred meters? Two hundred!? In the distance, a blonde girl seemed to rocket downwards, making small explosions in the air from her hands. Gods, is that the skill you need to become a huntsman?

...Is there a way I can do something? No, of course not. All I have is a sword and a shield! What can I do with that!?

As soon as the thought passed, his direction of acceleration changed. Oh, great. Now I'm falling down! Wait, didn't the headmaster give us all a mini shield? Maybe that can save me, right? Will that be able to save me from being killed in a fall!?

Jaune braced for impact as the ground grew steadily closer, closing his eyes tightly shut.

Thud!

...

...

...

Wait, what?

Jaune slowly opened his eyes. Wait, I opened my eyes! Ahaha, I opened my eyes and there's a forest! I'm alive! Looking upwards, his eyes were greeted by a red and gold spear embedded to his hoodie. Wait, did someone just... save my life? But what would they do without their weapon?

Suddenly, a ruffling noise emanated from the bushes in front of him. Instantly, Jaune's eyes widened, grabbing the crimson spear and trying to pull it out, amounting to no success whatsoever. Come on, come on! he chastised himself as a wolf slowly walked out of the bushes.

No! I can't just have this close of a brush with dying like this only to die from something else!

The wolf stepped closer. Jaune's breathing turned erratic as he grabbed the spear and struggled against it. It's embedded firmly in! I... I can't get it out, he thought, finally slumping against the tree and sighing deeply. So... this is really how I die, huh?

"HYAAAAAHH!"

Huh?

Just as the wolf jumped towards him with an open mouth, something slammed against it, sending it flying backwards. Jaune's eyes widened at his savior- a ginger haired boy with heavy armor and a mace, crouching down as the wolf attacked once more and sending it flying upwards with a punch.

Jaune gaped. So... this is what real huntsmen are like, huh?

As the wolf died and dissolved into ash, Jaune's savior turned around and made eye contact with him. Immediately afterwards, the boy flinched. Wait, what?

"Wait, are you shitting me? Fuck! I made eye contact!" exclaimed the boy as he punched the tree Jaune was currently pinned to. Immediately, Jaune widened his eyes as the spear un-embedded itself and he fell towards the ground unceremoniously.

"...Hi?" he finally introduced himself towards the scowling boy. "Name's Jaune Arc. Ladies love the name!"

"Shut the hell up, noodle!" the red haired boy scowled. Jaune flinched.

He rescued me for sure, but why do I feel like I've just walked into something even more horrible? Nah, it can't be true, right?

...

Yeah, it's obviously just my gut instinct. This'll go fine!

It was not fine.

Pyrrha Nikos sighed.

Thankfully it seemed that she had managed to save the boy from earlier. However, before she could arrive at his location someone had already made eye contact with him. Darn, then I should probably try to find... Yang, maybe? Ruby? Yeah, either of the two sound good.

Quickly, she focused on the surrounding metal in her area. Huh? He re-embedded it back into the tree? That's awfully kind of him, unless he had malicious intentions at least... she mused as her semblance activated and her weapon came flying back towards her. And just in time, too.

Spinning, Pyrrha turned around, Miló already turning from spear form to sword form as she slashed upwards in a horizontal arc. The blade of the weapon made contact with the Ursa's head, swiftly decapitating the beast as it lunged towards her. Rendered harmless, the beast's body ragdolled to the side.

Just then, there was another growling noise. Ah, of course.

Crouching down and bending her knees into a ready position, Pyrrha pushed off the ground, turning Miló back to spear form as she did so. Jumping upwards, she raised her arm before throwing it forwards, swiftly drilling her spear into a beowolf's skull.

Now!

With a flourish, Miló shifted to its third form- a rifle. Narrowing her eyes and getting down onto one knee, Pyrrha pulled the trigger, a resounding bang resonating throughout the forest. Following this was a second sound- the sound of metal hitting flesh.

Pyrrha stood back up as the already dissolving grimm flopped onto the ground, quickly making sure to reload her weapon in the process. Should I try calling out for someone? But if they recognize my voice, I could possibly giving away my location to...

She shuddered.

No, bad thoughts Pyrrha. Bad thoughts.

Carefully, she sheathed her weapon once more. And what's even more is that I need to get to the temple as quickly as possible, and maybe find one of the items that professor Ozpin mentioned, she noted. Wait, but what do I even know about survival skills...?

This was slowly becoming much more of a headache than she had initially anticipated.

"Hey, behind you!"

Pyrrha's feet were already moving.

Before she knew it, Akoúo̱ had driven itself into the neck of a beowulf, promptly sending it flying backwards. Not hesitating, Pyrrha unsheathed Miló in its default spear form and threw it forwards, the spear piercing the grimm before it hit the ground and immediately killing it. And now...

She grinned before turning around. Yes, I made eye contact!

"I suppose this makes us partners?" Pyrrha asked with a smile, stretching out her hand after sheathing her weapon. Her smile widened even further when the girl in front of her shook it with her own gloved one. "I believe I can take that as a yes?"

Yang Xiao Long grinned back. "P-Money, I think the two of us are gonna get along very nicely."

Ozpin sipped his coffee mug while looking at the screen. Ms. Nikos and Ms. Xiao Long, huh? Records wise, two of the best fighters out of this year's candidates, and they seem to get along quite nicely. Certainly likely to be a power duo in the future, as long as they're supported by the right teammates.

"Ozpin, I don't care what his transcripts say. That Jaune fellow is clearly not ready for this level of combat. I mean, he nearly died just trying to-" Glynda commented from his left, staring at her own monitor with a frown. "Ozpin? Ozpin, are you listening?"

"Peace, Glynda." he replied, raising a hand. "There are proper systems in place that make sure the students are perfectly safe. And as far as Mr. Arc goes, while the magazines might call me the most attractive madman in all of Remnant, I assure you that only the former descriptor truly applies."

Glynda deadpanned at him.

Finally after a moment's pause, the combat professor let out a sigh. "As you wish, headmaster. Either way, the pair of Lie Ren and Nora Valkyrie has just been formed." she noted. "Poor boy, really. I can't see them getting along well together at all..."

Ozpin furrowed his brows. That means that the only ones left are... Ah, of course. The problematic four.

Ruby Rose, despite a large amount of innate talent, would be a possible burden for her teammates if left unrestrained. Giyuu Tomioka held an authentic version of a metal that should by all rights be non-existent. Weiss Schnee was an incoming headache with her rather assertive personality, and Blake Belladonna was- if things went wrong- an approaching brain tumor with the details of her past.

Ah, sometimes I do wonder why I go through the headache of assigning teams randomly...

"...Glynda?" he asked. The professor glanced at him. "Do you ever wonder if the way we do this is worth the effort?"

Glynda shrugged before gazing at her screen once more.

"While I do very often doubt your state of mind, Ozpin, things do seem to work out in the end, do they not?"

Ozpin paused, before nodding.

"They do seem to, Glynda." he stated, noticing Ruby Rose rush through a group of grimm, leaving behind a trail of death in her wake. "They do seem to indeed."

Giyuu Tomioka pulled his sword out of the Ursa's skull, sheathing it in a single fluid motion. Before his sword left his grip however, a sound just barely tickled his ear and his grip tightened as he pulled his Nichirin blade out once more, looking from side to side.

Silent. I don't recall reading about any grimm types that were particularly sneaky. Maybe something not in Taiyang's book?

He paused. Immediately afterwards, a noise reached his ears once more and he turned towards the direction of the sound. Bushes! And whatever the sound is, the source of it is coming closer and closer towards me. So not sneaky, but just... confident, I suppose?

The sound grew louder and louder as seconds passed onwards. It's not regarding stealth at all anymore! he noted as he raised his sword upwards, poised to strike. Inside, his heartbeat quickened ever so slightly before he breathed in deeply, lowering it back. Alright, it's revealing itself.

Finally, with one last ruffle with the bushes, the source of the noise came out in the open, revealing itself to be... a human?

Wait, what?

In an instant, the person's eyes locked gazes with his own blue ones, effectively solidifying Ozpin's condition to decide partners. For a brief moment, Giyuu paused, unsure of what to do, before finally slightly relaxing and re-sheathing his sword.

"Well..." he began. "Hello there."

Chapter Text

Weiss Schnee walked along the forest quickly, being conservative with her energy. This way, I'll be able to scout for possible items that will help me get through the night as well. And besides, there's no time limit for us getting a relic, she noted, before inhaling sharply. But I do have to quickly find a good partner.

Her partner would be the person she would be stuck with in Beacon for several years. Finding someone that was compatible with her wasn't just something that was preferable, it was something that was borderline necessary if she wanted to go through her years at Beacon successfully.

"Hm," she hummed, placing a hand on her chin. I recall correctly, the most common grimm species found in this region would be-

Something growled behind her.

Of course!

With a flourish, Weiss thrust her rapier forward with an elegant, coordinated stab that went directly through the beowolf's throat. And obviously since beowolves travel in packs, there are gonna be at least... What was the number? Six? No, it was seven. Seven or more seems like a good estimate.

Twirling Myrtenaster through the air with a twist, Weiss quickly jabbed her rapier into the ground beneath her before quickly flicking a small mechanism on her hilt. At the same time, a snow white glyph appeared beneath her feet, the intricate snowflake emblazoned inside it spinning rapidly.

She quickly gave her dust chambers a sideways flick, making them spin to the right position before flicking the mechanism on her hilt again. Immediately, the glyph beneath her turned into a magnificent mix of purple and red fire that shot out into the forest in all directions.

Weiss grabbed her weapon by the hilt before pulling it out again. From the forest she could hear the sounds of animals growling. But are they dying and in pain, or are they just angry? she wondered, quickly flicking the dirt off the tip of her sword before raising it in a stance poised to strike.

They could come at me from any direction right now. I have to keep my ears open to prepare for any circumstance.

Just then, something reached her ear from her side. A growl, and definitely not a painful one! Turning, Weiss quickly thrust her blade forward just as the beowolf jumped out of the bushes, the tip of her rapier jutting out of the top of its torso like a skewer. Wait, that's a horrible position!

Immediately, Weiss retracted her weapon from the grimm's dying body in a smooth, fluid motion, raising it in a striking position once more. Or maybe I could gain a tactical advantage by leading them towards me! Since the other beowolf jumped out from the southeast, that direction is probably the most likely to be clear.

Keeping her weapon grasped, Weiss quickly ran in the southeast direction, spinning her chambers so that it locked into the fire dust vial. I might have to refill soon, that attack took a lot of dust out of me, she reminded herself. As soon as that thought passed however, another beowolf pounced at her from her front.

Weiss ended the creature's life with a single slash, all the while not bothering to stop running. Alright, that should get them to chase after me, right?

Quickly, she glanced to her back. Just as I expected, she thought with a smirk as she slid to a stop, a glyph already in front of her. Triggering the fire dust in her chambers, she thrust her sword into her newly made propulsion glyph, shattering the floating symbol into tiny shards.

With a mighty roar, a large torrent of red hot flames burst forth from the remains of her glyph, leaving behind a wide line of fire. Inside that line was what looked like half a dozen beowolf corpses, the bodies already starting to dissipate. Did that catch all of them?

Something roared, and Weiss flicked her head slightly to the left to see one final grimm charging straight towards her. Apparently not, it seems. Raising her sword again, it took her a single well placed thrust for the last survivor of the beowolf pack to be instantly killed.

With an exhale, Weiss carefully flicked open her pouch, unlocking Myrtenaster's chambers before refilling the now almost empty fire compartment. After filling it back to maximum capacity, she flicked her sword upwards, locking it once more before hooking it back onto her belt. Alright, now, which way was north again?

She looked upwards, being greeted by the sight of thick foliage. So the trees are blocking the view? I should probably get to a clearing in that case, she noted. Quickly taking a glance from side to side, she decided on a direction before turning and walking onwards.

Just as she began to walk however, a familiar growling noise alerted her ears. Her eyes twitching with an ever so slight flutter, Weiss quickly turned towards its direction. But that part's so thick with foliage! Still, someone may need my help. But then if I make eye contact...

She shook her head. What am I thinking? Of course I should go help. All of this- coming to beacon, everything I've done up till now- would have been for nothing if I become no better than my father in the end!

However, just as the thought passed through her mind, the clear sound of a blade echoed throughout the forest, accompanied by the dull growl that signified a dying grimm. Well at least they seem to have this handled, right? But still there shouldn't be any harm in offering help, and if they really are competent then I could be partnering up with someone skilled!

Nodding to herself, she quickly pressed forward into the foliage, her weapon drawn and slightly raised. As she walked, she could hear more slices and cuts, along with numerous whimpering growls. Whoever this is, they definitely seem to be competent, she noted. So that would mean that-

She exited the bushes, finally stepping onto the clearing. Immediately, she made eye contact with her future partner for four years.

Sharp eyes, dark hair, and a single edged blade, she immediately noted. Well, that's that. At least this person seems to be good at fighting, though the rest I'll have to see for myself later on...

Oh, crap! Gotta find Yang, gotta find Yang! Or Giyuu or Pyrrha or Jaune! Wait actually maybe not Jaune because he looked pretty err... bad at fighting things, but at least he's nice! Better him over any of the other students, like that crabby girl from before! Oh god, what if I get partnered with her accidentally? That would be hoooorrible!

Ruby rushed through the forest as a blur of black and red, her semblance working overtime to fuel her through the woods. Already in scythe form, Crescent Rose cut a large path around her, all the while killing the occasional grimm that strayed into her way. Soon, she found her breathing becoming more and more labored and slid to a stop, a large trail of flowers behind her. Briefly leaning against a rock, she panted, taking a long moment to catch her breath once more and buckling Crescent Rose back to her belt.

Alright, gotta change my strategy here. I could get to the temple quickly, but that wouldn't help me in getting the right partner. I would also probably make eye contact with the first person there, and that probably isn't good, right? Do I trust Yang to be there fastest out of everyone other than me?

She huffed. There really was no getting around this, wasn't there? It's all really nothing but luck in the end.

Suddenly, she froze as a particular mental image made its way to the forefront of her mind. One where she would meet the crabby girl from yesterday, getting scolded by said girl for all four years of Beacon. Ruby's eyes widened before they shut closed tightly once more. Bad thoughts! Bad thoughts!

But what if that was what happened? What if she would really be stuck with a partner through all four years that did nothing but scold her? Jaune doesn't seem too good at fighting, but I would take him any day over someone so mean! she quickly decided, before slumping.

Too bad I can't actually decide Jaune for a partner, or Yang, or Pyrrha or Giyuu or anyone else...

Inhaling deeply, she stood back up. Alright, there's no getting over this, is there? Then I'll just have to play the game like everyone else and hope for the best! she resolved, unbuckling her weapon once more before making her way towards her previous direction.

Immediately, a growl sounded from ahead, although Ruby wasn't sure just how far. Still, it doesn't sound too far off from here! she noted, hardening her expression. Quickly, she dashed forward with her semblance, Crescent Rose already in its signature scythe-form.

As she narrowly dodged the numerous trees that blocked her way, more and more growls started to emanate from ahead, although she couldn't tell whether they were growls of pain or... well, the typical growls that grimm made when they moved around. Idle growls, maybe? Wait, I'm pretty sure dad- gah! This isn't the time to think about that!

Just then, a particularly loud growl reached her ears. Immediately, Ruby's eyes widened as she stretched her arm backwards, extending her scythe behind her. With a slam, Crescent Rose's rounded blade neatly cut into one of the forest's trees, and Ruby's vision began to spin as she spiraled down the wooden bark. I- I really should've thought this through more before I tried to do it! she reprimanded herself as her momentum slowed to a- thankfully- much more manageable level.

Afterwards, she dropped to the ground before pulling out her weapon from the now carved tree and positioning it in a shooting position. Quickly flipping the correct switch, she shifted her weapon into its sniper mode before loading it with a satisfying click.

Alright, any more growls?

Speak of the devil, a distinct sound resonated throughout the forest, a sound Ruby knew as belonging to a specific type of grimm. With a sweep, she turned and fired a single bullet before shifting her weapon back into a scythe and activating her semblance once more, dashing towards the direction of the sound.

However, another, much more distinct sound quickly reached her ears. This time, her eyes widened as she immediately hooked around a tree once more and stopped, dropping down to the ground. That was the sound of bones breaking, wasn't it? Oh god, is someone dead!?

She immediately slapped herself in retaliation before audibly gulping. No! Don't think like that. And they might be in trouble if I don't help!

Without hesitation, she reactivated her semblance before dashing towards the source of the sound once more, silently praying as the cluster of oranges and greens of the forest's trees passed her by. Please please please don't let that sound have been a student's bones breaking... she internally mumbled as she passed through the foliage.

She got a visible view of the clearing fairly quickly, and what she saw made her sigh in relief. Oh! So it wasn't the person's bones breaking, it was just that the grimm got hit in a place where there was lots of... bone, I guess? Either way, thank goodness! was her first immediate thought.

Her second thought came immediately afterwards, as the bone-breaking killer of the grimm in question turned towards her, making eye contact. For a moment, Ruby froze in shock as silver eyes met ocean-blue. Am I supposed to say something right now?

"Well..." her partner for the next four years finally began after a pause, penetrating the all too awkward silence. "hello there."

Ruby's mouth stretched into a wide grin.

"O- Ozpin?"

"Yes Glynda?"

On the wide, thankfully structurally stable cliffs of Beacon Academy, Ozpin took yet another sip from his mug of coffee, his eyes darting from side to side as he observed the screens laid out before him. Really, she's never quite been this jittery. I wonder if it's the weather?

"I must say," Glynda began, pursing her lips as he gave her an acknowledging glance. "I suppose in your defense even the oddest teams in the past have somehow managed to work out. Still, with the last two pairings- don't you think, even for your standards, it seems..."

Ozpin glanced at the screen, and glanced at Glynda again, putting a hand to his chin and stroking his nonexistent beard. "Well Glynda," he said. "I'm not quite sure what you have a problem with. Especially considering the former pairing of Mr. Arc and Mr. Winchester, Mr. Tomioka and Miss-"

"The other pairing, headmaster." Glynda interrupted with a sigh, mumbling afterwards, "Sheesh, sometimes I swear you seem to mess with me intentionally when I ask these things. Did you truly think I was talking about the latter pair of partners?"

Ozpin merely gave her a lopsided smile. "Well they do make up quite the pairing, don't you think? I believe this year will be quite interesting indeed, Glynda. In fact- if things work out, I may be inclined to believe that our most problematic four students may shine out the brightest this year."

In response, Goodwitch only let out a loud exhale. "Well considering this isn't the first time I've made my rather harsh opinions known regarding some of the initial pairings, I suppose I can't say much at this point. Still, you must admit that these two are..."

"...Worrying?" Ozpin suggested.

"I would put it more as problematic, but yes, worrying fits the bill quite well."

Ozpin took another sip of his coffee, taking a brief moment to indulge his tongue in the aromas. Bartholomew truly did always have the best taste. What is it today, I wonder. Slightly strong to the nasal senses, and a touch of grassiness, perhaps. Some strange type of Espresso, perhaps? No, that would be more...

...Bitter.

With a tentative gaze, he looked down at his drink. Pitch black- even more so than usual.

"Glynda?"

"Yes, headmaster?"

"If you don't mind too much, please do fetch some ice for me. I believe this needs just a little diluting." he commented, a sly smile rising on his face.

It took all of his self control to push down the burst of laughter that threatened to arise as his assistant proceeded to give him the most dumbfounded look he had ever seen her make.

Blake cursed whatever gods were up in the sky. Not that they would care, of course. But still...

A Schnee. Out of all possible options for partners, of course she was partnered with the Schnee. Over a hundred students from the cliff and she's the one I make eye contact with, she internally groaned, keeping her twitching hand from slapping her forehead. I swear, someone's probably amused at this right now. Laughing at my-

"Are you quite done?" a shrill voice interrupted, Blake quickly raising her head to see her partner glaring at her. "If you don't mind, I would like to remind you that we are in an Initiation. Beacon's initiation, no less. This is no time to be gazing at the ground and frolicking around like- like a disappointed child!"

Blake opened her mouth to retort, before hesitating and biting her tongue, feeling the urge to pinch her nose. Oh god, she's right, isn't she? I'm getting too worked up over this right now. I came here to have a clean slate- to do something good in the world for a change. If I can't even get over something as petty as this, what in the world am I ever going to-

"And you're doing it again!" Weiss cut in once more, throwing her arms up in the air in what Blake assumed was either spite or frustration. "Phenomenal! Absolutely phenomenal. And here I was glad to have you as a partner after you seemed like you displayed some competency compared to some of the other hooligans in this school."

Wait, what-

"Now listen to what I say very carefully. What you should do is follow my lead! It's clear that the only thing at this point that you can do is cut up Grimm, but at the very least you seem to be combat-ready, and I'll be damned if I can't even assert command over a competent fighter such as you- personality quirks aside, of course." Weiss said before swiftly turning around and walking forward before mumbling something. "At least you aren't as hyperactive as that-"

Blake could only stand dumbfounded. She paused for a moment, even her previous fidgeting now absent. Did- I- She- What just-

"I SAID FOLLOW ME!"

Oh gods what the hell am I doing.

Quickly snapping herself out of her trance, Blake tightly gripped her weapon before marching forwards, darting her eyes around to check for possible threats. It's a bit strange not relying on my ears, but I can't risk them twitching and giving me away. Especially not in front of the Schnee, she reminded herself. Still...

It was odd.

The Schnee was- in some ways- acting completely in line with her expectations, but there was something more than that. Something that Blake couldn't quite put her finger on, but could definitely recognize was there. In the tone of her voice maybe, or in her body gestures... Maybe it's the assertiveness? No, I would expect a Schnee to be assertive. So what's so different about her? Is it that she complimented my fighting abilities? But-

Blake withheld a sigh, wiping the thought from her mind. Her musings could come later. For now, she absolutely needed to pass the initiation, and she had already failed in some regards by letting herself get distracted one too many times. In that case though-

"Do you know where we're going?" Blake questioned the girl in front of her, noting her slight decrease in walking speed. "We're supposed to be headed to the temple, right? I noted down my path when I was landing, and I'm pretty sure we're supposed to head that way."

She pointed towards her left before a distinct sound registered in her ears. Wait, that's-

Gambol Shroud was raised in a split second, the blade of the one-edged sword cutting through the Beowolf as she unsheathed and slashed her weapon upwards in a single practiced movement. The creature smoked as its bisected parts harmlessly passed her from both sides.

"Schnee," she called out, glancing towards her partner and noting the single, firm nod from the white haired girl- a gesture that communicated just about everything that was necessary in that moment in time. With nothing but a split second of hesitation, Blake found herself nodding back, Gambol Shroud already raised and poised for another attack.

"We've yet to maneuver any proper moves to synchronize our capabilities together." Weiss's voice stated from behind her. "So for the sake of being pragmatic with this, we must simply act with minimal interference between ourselves. Is that agreeable?"

"Yeah," Blake agreed. I don't think I quite registered that, but I think I get the gist. "I won't get in your way."

"Excellent. So you can cooperate after all." Weiss replied with a hint of a smirk on her face.

It took everything inside her to not roll her eyes as another beowolf pounced from the bushes. A Schnee is a Schnee after all, I suppose, she noted as she thrust her weapon forward. As the blade pierced through the grimm, she heard the very distinct noise of ice behind her, and almost instinctively glanced back before her eyes widened.

Holy- that's a lot of ice dust.

With a flourish, the Schnee then thrust her rapier forward, a wave of green energy bursting forward and cutting through the previously created ice- as well as the grimm trapped inside it. Lots of dust being used to fight, huh... Blade made a mental note to remember the move for the future, if things got... Don't think of that right now!

With a single quick slice, the last of the grimm was bisected, and Blake sheathed her weapon with a sigh. I really need to get back on my game right now. Still, the prospect of having a Schnee for a partner for the next several years...

"What was your name again?" once more, Weiss's voice cut through her thoughts. "I suppose you already know my name, as you've previously indicated." she said with a small scowl. "But our differences in opinion aside... I don't think I've quite been introduced to you."

Blake hesitated, before sighing and holding out a hand. Might as well. "Blake Belladonna," she said, the white haired girl grabbing her hand and lightly shaking it.

"Well then, I hope our partnership remains amicable, Blake." Weiss said before swirling around and walking away once more.

Blake sighed.

So do I...

"So, we're the first ones here?"

Yang glanced around the temple ruins, her eyes eventually landing on a large chessboard in the center. Her partner followed close behind, her footsteps barely audible even among the dense foliage of the forest's ground. Maybe she's just light on her feet? Or is it just the high heels...

"I don't believe so," Pyrrha echoed, stepping in front of her and pointing towards the chessboard. "The board. I assume these are the relics Professor Ozpin told us to retrieve, and some of them are already gone. That could only mean that some have already retrieved their pieces."

Yang looked at the board a bit more closely. On second look, it does seem a bit... weird. "Well," she began. "What piece ya reckon we should take? I think I'll go with a cute little horse. Wait, does it actually matter which one we take? Besides, both of us have to take the same pieces, right?"

"You're right." Pyrrha said with a nod. "And now that I notice it, the Kings and Queens are notably missing. Same with the pawns. I must've assumed wrongly." she continued, before picking up a horse as well. However, after a moment of pause, she set it down once more.

"Huh?"

"Well, since there are four of each piece if you count separate colors as different pieces, I can only assume that these chess pieces are meant to indicate team combinations, and..." Pyrrha paused, gazing at the board. "Three pairs have already been here, since six pieces are missing."

Yang let out a whistle. "Not sure I noticed that. Quick mind, huh?" she praised, setting down her own horse piece. "Whaddya say we wait it out a bit? Scout things out a bit so we get a better combination and all. Although..." she trailed off. Ruby might've already passed through the area. With her semblance it's all the more likely. But am I willing to bet on that?

"Well I suppose it couldn't hurt," Pyrrha voiced her agreement. "Are you looking for any particular members?"

"My sister, mostly." Yang said. "She's always had kinda crabby luck, so if her partner ends up being an ass or something..." she shuddered, before turning to her partner. "I should probably be in her team just as insurance. If that's fine with you, of course. I don't wanna pressure you into doing any-"

Pyrrha quickly raised her hands, waving them bashfully. "No, no! It's totally fine," she exclaimed. "I don't have any siblings from back home, but it's quite admirable how you care for your sister so much. The red haired one from yesterday, right?"

"Yup, that's good ol' Ruby."

Pyrrha grinned. "If so, I don't think I would mind being in a team with her either."

"Alright, then we scout it out for a while?"

"I think that would be the wisest course of action."

Yang gave her partner a thumbs up before leaning against the pedestal with the board. Actually, what do we do now though? The initiation lasts for a day and the sun hasn't even gone down yet, so there's no telling what's gonna happen. Still... this might be just a little-

"What's your favorite color?" Pyrrha's voice interrupted her thoughts. Raising an eyebrow, Yang glanced at her partner, who had a bashful expression overlaying her face. Huh? she wondered semi-mindlessly as Pyrrha... flinched? "Well you don't have to tell me, but I was informed that this is a decent conversation starter."

"...Oh." Yang eventually managed to reply, somewhat dumbfounded. Is she... socially inexperienced or something? She was a helluva fighter earlier today, I can't really say I expected... whatever this is... "I guess my favorite color would be yellow. Y'know, with my weapons and hair and all,"

"Phenomenal!" Pyrrha exclaimed. "I personally like red."

...

...

...

Yang let out a sheepish chuckle. "You really aren't the best at this, huh?" she threw out, her partner's gaze suddenly directed towards the ground- much to her great amusement. "Don't worry, Momma Yang's got you covered on this. Say what, once we pass initiation, I'll give you a few pointers on how to pep up that social life of yours."

Pyrrha perked up, her eyes slightly widened. "Truly? You would do that for me?"

"I mean, 4 years at Beacon, right?" Yang responded. "Best do it now than later, otherwise you might miss out on some of the best parts of being our age!"

"I'm not sure what you mean, but I agree!" Pyrrha enthused. "Surely you must know better than I in something like this. If it's fine with you, I'll erm," she briefly paused, putting a hand on her chin before perking up again. "entrust the growth of my frolicking skills into your hands!"

Yang laughed. Frolicking, I'll have to remember that one.

Standing up straight once more, she briefly stretched before clasping her arms and activating her weapon. "Well Pyrrha," she called. "There's still some time to kill, and I don't think anyone's coming here soon, so I think I have a decent way to pass some time."

"Oh?"

"Well, that is unless something crazy happens." she joked, before her face scrunched up into a much more thoughtful expression. "Actually, if you wanna hear something funny, some really crazy stuff happens pretty often with my sist-"

Before Yang could finish speaking, a red blur crashed into her face.

Giyuu Tomioka- relatively speaking- considered himself as one of the more quiet individuals in the world. Of course, while he was quite very much aware that his observed sample was somewhat biased in one direction due to the fairly loud and brash nature of both the average demon slayer and the average huntsman, his ability to maintain a level of quiet serenity both in mind and body was a skill that he liked to think of as useful.

That skill apparently went flying out the window- shattering it in the process- when Ruby Rose's insanity managed to manifest itself into equally insane plans. Which in this case, involved riding a giant deadly monster and somehow praying that it would fly them in the right direction.

Note to self: Be more assertive in the face of utter insanity.

Giyuu's eyes darted around from side to side as he gazed down from a bird's eye view, simultaneously feeling a major migraine incoming. This isn't good. I know where we're supposed to go, but how in the world are we supposed to lead it into going there?

Before he could finish his thought, he shielded his face with a single arm as a particularly strong wisp of wind whipped at his face. "Ruby!" he called out. I really should've thought this through more before agreeing with her. "What comes next?!"

"I have no clue!" Ruby yelled back from her position in front of him, Giyuu immediately resisting the urge to smash his face against the floor- or in this case the back of the demonic flying bird. "I think we need to steer it in the direction we wanna go in!"

Well the question is how, right?

Giyuu bit his lips in thought. I can't just stab my sword into the creature and try to steer it. Ninchirin is strong, but it isn't meant to handle that level of brute force, and I don't think I'm physically capable of turning this thing, he noted with a frown. We would need something heavy in terms of force. Something that slams or-

An idea blinked into existence in his mind. An utterly insane idea, but an idea nonetheless. Still, do I wait or do I go forth with it?

Gritting his teeth together, he glanced at Ruby, struggling to hold on to the creature's surface. Below him, his own grip was somewhat beginning to falter. We're on a time limit- Ruby more than I. If we falter any longer, that could risk both of us dying. But still, it's utterly deranged...

He sighed.

If my mind making up ideas like these ends up becoming a reoccurring thing, I'm blaming it on her.

"Ruby!" he called out once again, pausing until the girl glanced back at him in acknowledgement. "How precisely can you aim?" he then asked, quickly losing an edge on his grip before tightening his clenched hands and regaining his stability once more.

"Very!" the girl answered without hesitation. "I can do anything with my baby!"

Good, because otherwise there's a good chance of us dying here today, Giyuu muttered internally before opening his mouth again. "Ruby! Ice dust crystals! Throw them to me!" he yelled, his partner hesitating for a split second before reaching into her pouch and throwing several sky blue crystals in his direction.

They shot towards him with blinding speed, mostly due to the wind and the movement of the grimm.

He caught all of them with one hand.

"Ruby!" he yelled for what felt like the tenth time that day, moving his fingers to slot a single ice dust crystal into a position between his thumb and his index while keeping the rest of the crystals tightly grasped in his palm. "When I throw the crystal, shoot it with a wind bullet!"

"Alright!" Ruby echoed, before reaching behind her and pulling out Crescent Rose. "And by the way, you might wanna grab on tight!" she warned as she brought down the tip of her weapon onto the Grimm's skin. Giyuu barely had time to take the words into mind before the monster wailed out in fury, tossing and turning in the process. Ruby made it through the ordeal rather easily, grasping onto the grip of her weapon.

Giyuu barely managed to grab onto his grip properly, his already clenched hand tightening even further as he scowled. This entire ordeal is going to age me ten entire years by the time it ends...

"Alright, I'm ready to go!" Ruby indicated.

At least she's doing her job well, I suppose.

With a grunt, Giyuu threw his arm forward in an arc, the dust crystal shooting through the air and positioning itself right in front of the beast's eyes. "Now shoot it!" he yelled, a single loud gunshot echoing through the air as a green sniper bullet drilled into the crystal in the air.

Before he could blink, dozens of small, sharp ice shards made impact with the creature's eyes at shattering velocities, Giyuu quickly pocketing the rest of the crystals and adding another grip before the creature wailed in pain once more, trying to shake off its temporary riders.

Alright, it's blinded! Somehow, that worked!

"Now Ruby," he called out, the girl glancing at him with a grin. "Steer!"

Meanwhile on Beacon's cliff, Headmaster Ozpin let out a long, audible chortle.

There truly is something special about throwing children off cliffsides, he mused. After all, they constantly seem to lead to some very entertaining scenarios.

Chapter Text

This is not fine.

Jaune Arc stumbled across the forest, his armor heavy against his chest and the steady bounces of Crocea Mors beginning to weigh on his jeans as he marched onwards. He counted 7 times now that he had just barely avoided tripping and slamming his face into the ground below- something he quite obviously wanted to avoid, thank you very much.

In front of him- marching at a much faster pace- was his foreseeable partner for the next four years of Beacon. Cardin Winchester apparently didn't give enough of a damn about what happened to his sorry soul to care about, well, anything that happened to him. Instead, the boy trudged on, his armored backside a constant sight that Jaune barely kept up with.

Then, something elevated bumped into his left foot. Jaune's tired eyes widened instantly to an almost comical degree, his arms flailing around and swatting against nearby leaves as he struggled to maintain balance after being rendered single-footed for but a brief moment.

Eventually, his left foot found itself back on the ground, trudging against the muddy dirt with a sound Jaune was very much not fond of. Still, Cardin's backside and the glint of his mace was slowly disappearing from sight, and Jaune was absolutely not crazy enough to stay in the forest without his only real source of protection. Clenching his fists, he increased his pace to a slight jog to catch up with Cardin's- admittedly not so fast- walking speed. He ignored, or at least tried to ignore the tiny but noticeable impact his armor made against his body as it rose up and down, slamming into him and breaking his stamina down piece by piece.

Thoughts buzzed around his head as he wandered the forest with his partner, but in the end they all seemed to converge to a singular, dominating phrase.

I'm so screwed.

"Oi, noodle!" Cardin's voice called out from ahead. "Are you gonna complete this initiation or not?"

Jaune wasn't sure whether to be happy that his partner was at least somewhat aware of his existence (loosely speaking, of course) or concerned that he was about to spend four entire years with... What would I call a guy like Cardin, actually? Pretty sure mom would-

The sound of a mace slamming against flesh cut through his thoughts. Jaune quickly shuddered as his eyes landed upon the sight- his partner swinging his weapon in a wide arc, the metal slamming into the beowolf's face and sending it flying sideways.

I wonder what would happen if I got hit by something like that- wait, no! Not the time!

Biting his lip, Jaune brandished his own weapon, the steel of Crocea Mors raised high in the air as he quickened his pace to a sprint and charged into the fray. By now, Cardin had already effectively either killed or disabled the majority of the Grimm, which meant it was going to be easy pickings from now on. And besides, they didn't look that dangerous anyway! All I need to do is time my swings right, and- Oh, that one!

His mouth twitching into a grin, Jaune's eyes settled on a smaller looking beowolf that had its backside exposed. Slightly altering his direction, Jaune prepared to swing down his sword. Now if I can get just a bit closer to it-

His foot slammed into something hard.

Before he could blink, Jaune found his face being slammed into the wet dirt of the ground below.

It then apparently took him way too much time to realize that he had potentially revealed his presence to a creature that would be able to mangle him in an instant. As the realization hit, Jaune's mouth morphed into an 'o' as he lay sprawled across the dirt.

The growling came immediately after.

His body moving on autopilot, Jaune scrambled to his feet... and failed, managing to only barely get into a sitting position as the creature in front of him pounced into the air. Almost instinctively he shut his eyes closed tightly, his heart beating into his ears and his shield arm sloppily and harshly throwing itself forward.

Please please please please-

He waited for the impact to come, and it-

Huh?

The crashing sound of steel echoed throughout the forest, followed by the muffled growl of a beast.

Jaune blinked.

As his eyes registered the sight in front of him, something in his chest seemed to cave inwards, a host of feelings rising up within him that he wasn't sure how to recognize. Shame? Relief? A horrible amount of terror and fear? Probably a lot of that. Still...

Cardin Winchester stood in front of him, his mace held idly at his waist. To his left, a disintegrating corpse had been very clearly slammed into a nearby tree. Jaune's breathing grew harsh. Unsteady. Cardin looked down at him with something on his expression, his eyes and mouth twisted into something Jaune couldn't quite recognize.

"I-" Jaune opened his mouth to speak- but his throat wore out, leaving his mouth hanging in an awkward gape.

Cardin lifted his mace. "I'm seriously stuck for four years with a loser like you?" he muttered, with a tone almost bordering on disbelief. Without a word afterwards, the boy turned and walked away, his silhouette slowly disappearing into the forest ahead.

Jaune clenched his fists.

Dammit.

"So Rubes, how did you get here with pitch perfect timing?"

"Oh, I rode a Nevermore!"

Next to him Giyuu heard something of a muffled chortle coming from the armored girl- Pyrrha, he recalled from a conversation the previous day- and he had to admit, there was something rather funny about Ruby's delivery. As if this is an everyday thing.

"H- huh?"

"Yeah it was awesome! We wanted to-"

"You wanted to." Giyuu managed to interrupt, much to the apparent chagrin of a now slightly dimmer reaper. Still, Ruby only responded with a light wave of her hand.

"Details, details. Anyways-" she continued. "I thought- getting to the forest quickly was our biggest objective, right? So we needed to get there ASAP. But running is so slow, and boring as well, and being high up would give us the advantage of being able to see lots of things in the forest, right? So..."

She concluded rather awkwardly, weakly raising her arms in something resembling... actually, what pose is she even trying to make here?

Yang crossed her arms, her frown barely letting out a surprisingly well concealed smirk. "And you thought the natural conclusion to that line of thinking was riding on top of a giant dangerous grimm?" she asked, Ruby quickly nodding. Huffing, the blonde turned away, her eyes darting around her surroundings. "Where did you even land the thing anyway?"

"About 50 meters east." Giyuu replied this time. "We made sure it was dead." We probably overdid it too, he noted, recalling Ruby putting her weapon into something she had called rapid-fire mode before shooting about a dozen rounds into the collapsed beast's head. They had stayed for a minute to watch the disintegration begin before making their way to the relics.

Ruby had then promptly disappeared in a trail of roses to greet her sister.

Yang sighed. "Well, at least you're safe. You two partnered up?" she asked, raising an eyebrow. Giyu gave her a nod, and a tension in her face seemed to release as she huffed. "I'm glad. Thought for a sec she would be stuck with some goober for four years, like that ass from the weapon lockers."

Giyuu only raised an eyebrow. "Have I met this person?"

"Nope," Yang muttered, popping the 'p.' "You slept with that damn sword of yours hooked onto your waist so you wouldn't have seen him in the lockers. It was some ginger dude- tall, broad shoulders, giant mace, lots of fancy looking armor. The guy pushed past us and acted like an ass about it afterwards."

"Didn't dad say it's bad to judge people based on first impressions?" Ruby interjected. Yang sputtered.

"W- well sometimes the case is different, alright? I dunno, maybe he was just really having a bad day." Yang said. "Still, I'm good at the people thing, alright? And I really didn't like the- the... you know, the things coming off of him." she concluded somewhat lamely.

Pyrrha coughed. "Not to twist your words, but that sounds a bit promiscuous."

"Promiscuwhat now?"

Pyrrha slightly winced and took a step back, covering her mouth with a hand. "On second thought, I think I'll just- stay silent, actually." she said with a sheepish chuckle. "Just... er, don't mind me."

Yang raised an eyebrow, but otherwise didn't comment. "Y'know, I'm gonna search that up on my scroll when initiation is over- given that I actually remember the word." she said, muttering towards the end. "Promiscu-something. Promiscuas? No, that's not it either."

Pyrrha apparently was wiser than her sheepish disposition implied, as she stood still with her mouth firmly closed shut.

What an odd group of people.

It took about three seconds for Yang to give up trying to remember the word. With a huff, she ran a hand through her hair and looked sideways at what he assumed were the relics Ozpin had sent them out to find. "You guys gonna pick one? We already got ours." she said, turning back to Ruby who responded with a nod.

Giyuu stepped towards the board. A series of strangely shaped figurines rested on it, some of them resembling vague shaped and structures he was familiar with. Giyuu picked up a more strange looking one- a round looking piece that looked like a knife had cut into the top portion.

"What are these?" he muttered, holding up the figurine.

Yang's jaw slightly dropped, much to his confusion. "You've seriously never seen a chess board before?" she asked. Nonplussed, he shook his head before pausing and looking at the pedestal- which was apparently called a chess board- again.

"Ah, actually," he said. "The pattern is familiar, but I've never seen the pieces."

Yang flashed a lopsided smile. "I was gonna make you play chess with us there for a sec, but now that I think about it there are seriously way better games to play now." she said. "I think partners are supposed to pick the same piece, by the way. That's why there's four of each piece on the board. Two groups of two and all."

Giyuu nodded, looking at the board again. Releasing the piece from his hand, he set it back down on the board. Although that seems awfully... controlled. It feels almost strange that Ozpin would let students decide their teams like this after deciding partner combinations by eye contact and throwing examinees into a forest.

But what other determining factor could there be?

"Yang, what piece did you pick?" Ruby interjected. "The two of us can just pick the other pieces so we can be on a team together!"

Giyuu furrowed his eyebrows, staring at the pieces. "She picked the horse. All of the other pieces have two pairs, but the horse only has one." he commented before returning to staring at the board. There's something here, but what would it be? Or am I just paranoid? "Yang, are the game pieces usually organized this way?"

Yang stepped towards him, a frown on her face. "Actually, no." she said. "But you're probably wasting your time if you're trying to find some hidden pattern in the pieces. Six of them are gone now, and I mean, hell- you don't even know the rules of the game."

Ruby then took the moment to interject. "I mean, even if headmaster Ozpin gave us crazy instructions for partners, the instructions have always been super simple, so..." she noted. That's actually... surprisingly insightful? "Maybe this is just something meant to trip up people but it's actually super simple as well?"

Giyuu hummed. Actually, she does have a point. I don't know enough about Ozpin to predict what he's thinking, but either way I'm probably worrying for nothing.

Grabbing the horse pieces, he tossed one over to Ruby, who promptly caught it and grinned before hesitating a moment later. "Wait, you really trust me on this?" she asked. "Cuz I'm not really tipsy hundred-percent sure about this either. You might have a point actually..."

Well now we're back to square one.

Giyuu sighed. "On second thought, even if there's a pattern I doubt we can figure it out by ourselves. We have more pressing things to attend to right now."

"See?" Yang exclaimed. "Even Sherlock over here's given up. Trust me Rubes, it's gonna be fine."

Ruby put a hand on her chin, her face in a frown. "You're probably right. Still, now you've planted the idea in my head and I can't get it out!" she huffed, her talking pace increasing by the second before she finally stopped and slumped. "I miss Signal..."

Yang winced. "Honestly yeah, even with uncle Qrow Signal was less..."

"Eccentric?" Pyrrha offered, Yang nodding in response.

Meanwhile, Giyuu pocketed his chess piece and glanced towards the side. "Either way," he began. "There's no use dwindling here now. When we were on the Nevermore I spotted some locations with odd looking specks of silver. I think those are the materials we need to find in order to survive the night. If we don't have anything more to discuss, we should depart."

Pyrrha nodded. "Yes, that would be wise. I assume all of us can last a night without food, but still..."

"Alright then!" Yang perked up. "So which way do we-"

Before she could finish, a bear tore into the clearing with a girl riding on top of it.

"What an interesting group."

Glynda threw him a scowl. "You say that while leaving the majority of the paperwork to me." she muttered, with a just barely visible tinge of humor in her tone. "This year is messy, headmaster. You may call them interesting, but after so many years, I'm quite more inclined to call them..."

Ozpin sipped on his now-diluted coffee. "Filled with joyous potential, perhaps?"

"Tiring was the word I was going for, but considering we have wildly varying ideas of joy and fun, perhaps you may have a point." Glynda stated. "That boy with the sword- Tomioka, he was the one that Xiao Long personally recommended, was he not?"

Ozpin nodded. "It isn't often Taiyang uses his privilege as an Beacon alumni in such a way. So far however, I don't think I've quite seen anything truly noteworthy out of the boy yet." he stated, his eyes fixated on his screen. "Perhaps he simply needs to be pushed to meet a challenge?"

"I disagree." Glynda firmly stated, Ozpin's head- for once- snapping around to look at her in surprise. Glynda's never given an outright commendation on initiation. So what would give? "Compared to the other candidates this year, I'd say he's quite observant, wouldn't you agree?"

Ozpin blinked. "Observant?"

Glynda gestured at her screen. "The other candidates so far have simply picked up their chess pieces and left. Tomioka is the first real case where he took the time to observe the patterns of the relics. Perhaps the only one to crack the clue behind the puzzle." she noted.

Ozpin grinned.

"Fair enough I suppose," he said. "Although I would argue that what fuels Tomioka isn't quite being observant. In the end the boy still picked the knight, and I'd say that's quite telling."

Glynda raised an eyebrow, a gesture for him to continue.

"Now if he were truly observant, he would take note of the proper organization and pick the bishop instead- assuming he wants to team up with Ms. Xiao Long and Ms. Nikos." Ozpin noted. "However, in the end he still picked up the knight. Combine that with his behavior when we first met, and it's quite easy to come to the conclusion that what drives young Tomioka isn't being observant- it's paranoia." he concluded.

Afterwards, he shrugged.

"Of course, I could be wrong. I'm simply speaking from my own anecdotes after all." he said. "And paranoia can lead itself to observation. The ability to detect one's surroundings- I suspect our candidate has that in spades. Perhaps even his combat observation may give us a pleasant surprise if such a situation presents itself to us. His pattern detection could certainly use some work, though. Perhaps he'll need help in Mathematics?"

Glynda put a finger on her chin, her eyes unmoving as it gazed at the screen. "You may be correct, headmaster. Either way, I must say I feel a fair bit of pity for the boy. He seems to be more withdrawn than anything, and partnering up with someone like Rose..." she paused. "Although I suppose it isn't quite as bad as Mr. Ren and Ms. Valkyrie. I fear how those two may manage to get along if they do manage to pass this..."

Ozpin simply chuckled. "Well Glynda, I suspect this year we've got our hands quite full with problematic partnerships." he chimed, taking a long drink from his mug and settling his eyes to a particular group.

Speaking of problematic partnerships...

"FOR THE RECORD, IF THIS THING KILLS ME I'M BLAMING ALL OF THIS ON YOU!"

Blake restrained a wince as she sprinted across the forest, her natural experiences guiding her limbs as she jumped off of boulders as vantage points and flipped over trees. To be fair, her partner- who was currently gliding across the air with just as much elegance as Blake had come to expect from the short time she had worked with her- did have a point. Blake had seen the Deathstalker in the cave. Blake had seen Weiss approach it. Blake had heard it growl and had felt the instinctual twitch of the ears on top of her head.

Blake had also made the decision there and then that an encounter with a Deathstalker would be better than exposing her identity on the spot. And she didn't regret it- at least, not too much. The two of them could reasonably survive this encounter and make it past initiation, she was confident enough of both her and her partner's skills for that. Still, she did have to admit...

"This thing is way too persistent..." she muttered through her teeth, frustration seeping into her voice. Just as the Deathstalker swung its arm towards her again, Blake pushed with her right leg, kicking upwards from the ground and flinging herself to a nearby tree. As she soared through the air, her arms reached out to grab a branch which she promptly used to propel her forward.

It doesn't help that neither of our skillsets are suited to beat a Deathstalker. Cutting weapons aren't going to be effective against it until some serious blunt force damages or cracks its outer shell. Maybe Schnee could use her dust, but I'm not sure how much she has of that...

As her feet touched the ground once more, Blake blinked and a wave of electricity ran through her body. The entire ordeal took a split second before she pushed forward once more, her partner already ahead of her. Now however, a pitch black clone of herself stood in the way of the Grimm.

That'll distract it for just a little time. Maybe by then-

To her side, Weiss dodged a swing from the scorpion's pincer, sliding under it as if the ground was made out of ice.

Wait, we need to actually get to the temple as well. If we're going in the opposite direction, this could hinder our progress massively! she noted, chastising herself as her white-haired partner slid to her side with stone cold eyes and a raised sword. Around Myrtenaster's blade, a torrent of energy swirled and cackled, begging to be released.

Blake heard the sound of a click before Weiss drove her sword to the ground, the ground's stability shattering as cracks began to appear along the muddy stone and dirt. In a split second, whatever move Weiss had used had created a path of seismic activity that led directly to the deathstalker.

And then she heard the ice.

To a honed ear, the sound of ice being involved with anything was something way too distinct to not distinguish. There was a unique sort of hum to the cold surface impacting against something else, almost mirroring the sound of shattering glass save for a few very clear differences in pitch and tone.

Before the Deathstalker had time to dodge, a pillar of jagged ice erupted from the ground underneath it, a guttural noise piercing the air as the grimm was sent flying backwards. I kinda have to admit, Blake thought to herself. That's pretty impressive. If she trains up her semblance even more, it could be...

She restrained a shudder.

No. Don't think about that now.

"Belladonna!" Weiss's voice snapped her from her thoughts. "While I'm flattered by your impression of my skills, that isn't going to keep it down for long. We need to run and get to the temple as fast as possible- luckily, I've made sure to track our progress so that we've been heading in the correct direction until now."

Blake simply nodded before she followed the Schnee heiress, a mixture of emotions blending inside of her stomach. She kept track of the direction as well? I've had field experience with this stuff before- how am I the one being pulled along here?

She winced as she jumped over a tree branch, taking just a split second to look up at the clouds as she swung from a grip.

I'm seriously off my game today. If this continues, things might get- wait, huh?

Blake stopped. Didn't Ozpin say that the temple was at the Northwestern end of the forest? In that case, since we're going to the left...

Suddenly, she felt smug to an almost guilty degree.

"Schnee!" she called out from the ground, the girl stopping and looking back at her with a mixture of curiosity and exasperation laced into her expression. Keeping her deadpan, Blake simply pointed to her side. "We're meant to go that way. Look at the position of the sun."

As she had expected, the girl's first expression was one of frustration- as if she wanted to argue- before she shifted her gaze as well to the sky above them. For the next few seconds, the girl's face was shifted from emotion to emotion- most of them looking fairly laughable, if Blake had to be honest.

Finally, the Schnee heiress simply huffed before giving her a nod and shifting directions.

Blake took a deep breath before following her.

Giyuu was done.

He had handled Ruby's insanity. He had handled Yang's antics. He had handled Ozpin- for reasons he was fairly sure were unrelated to any sort of academic striving- launching all of his students into a forest with a ridiculous looking device. And he wasn't sure whether this was a tiny little feather that added onto piles of weight or a heavy piece of iron falling from the sky, but either way it snapped the camel's back.

He missed Japan, where the most he had to deal with was the occasional paper work and the even more occasional civilian death that followed his career. It was awful, but it was his preference of awful. He had gotten used to the awfulness, and he could withstand it. Remnant however, for all its technological advancements and safety, brought upon a whole new breed of frustration- one he was just starting to identify.

It was annoyance. Annoyance that he felt throughout his entire body. It wasn't like the shock and the deep frustration that came with seeing a dead civilian- more of a sudden weariness that spread through his arms and legs. And it would get even worse because he was so very sure that Ruby or Yang- flip a coin- would call him brooding again after this as a result.

He felt the urge to do many things. Like smacking his head against the ground, or smacking his head with his palm.

Either way, at least the bear Grimm the girl had ridden on was dead- a drop of water in a desert for sure, but it was something, he supposed. And we're likely to take them along for supplies as well, now that they've arrived here. I'm not sure how much more I can take of this without dying from a migraine.

There's some humor in that though. A Hashira of the corps dying not from a demon attack, but from stress. Maybe it could be an ideal way to die that slayers in the future could strive for?

He shook his head. That was then, and this was now. Taking in a deep breath, he let his emotions flood out of his system like a wave. Think rationally. That's the past, but the reality is that I'm here- and it's up to me to decide how I'm going to act and deal with this situation.

No matter how... strange some people may be.

Readjusting to his surroundings, he took notice of the disintegrating body of the bear Grimm. Towards the center of the clearing, the two that had entered- the hammer girl and the boy that looked like him- had already chosen their pieces, with the ginger girl gleefully holding a piece shaped like a tower.

Well they certainly pick quickly at least.

"Alright, you two done?" Yang asked, the boy with a pink streak in his hair nodding in response. "Then you might wanna join us. Work together for now and all, since we all have to get through today anyway. We're grouping up and searching for the supplies that Ozpin mentioned before Initiation begin. You two in or not?"

"We're in!" the ginger girl immediately replied gleefully. Oh no, she sounds just like the way she acts... "As long as I get to smash some Grimm on the way, we can work together! Isn't that right, Ren?"

The boy with the pink streak- who he assumed was Ren- simply nodded. Giyuu blinked. So he's a quiet type. I wonder how he'll get along with a partner like the hammer girl. Shinobu always did tell me that opposites worked well together at times, and I suppose that could be true- after all, she did end up being the closest person I had inside the corps.

"Great!" Yang concluded with a grin. "Then we can get on with this and tootle out of here before things become even more cra-"

Before she could finish, a familiar looking girl with snow-white hair flew into the clearing, barely managing to land properly by using a glyph under her feet. Speak of the devil. Still, that's certainly an interesting looking ability. I suppose it's still hard to adjust to the oddities that the people here are capable of...

Following her, another familiar figure- although Giyuu only faintly remembered seeing her before the launchpads had flung them into the forest- flipped into the area, a pitch black clone of herself directly behind her. The girl wasted no time, immediately turning towards Yang and raising her sword.

"There's a deathstalker heading this way. We tried to delay it with an attack, but I think that only made it angrier!" she hurriedly explained, striding up to the clearing and grabbing two pieces of the same kind that Giyuu had picked up earlier- Yang had called it a bishop. She quickly tossed one to her partner, who promptly caught it, before turning back to the rest of the group already in the clearing. "It's fight or run. I'd say we could handle it right now with a group of eight, but whatever you decide you have to do it fast."

"Wait! How long do we have?" Ruby asked, her scythe- in its miniature form- already in her hands. Oh for the love of-

That was when the giant scorpion Grimm burst through from the treeline ahead. Oh, it's one of those. Giyuu already faintly remembered the shape- he had killed one, albeit a much much smaller one, on his first day here. But this one was at least twice the size of the one he had killed. With this one, he wasn't so sure if his water basin would get him through the beast's armor- or even damage it for that matter.

To the left of him, Yang pushed her fists together, a faint orange glow in her eyes. "I say we fight the thing. It's eight of us and one of the thing, how hard could it be?"

It was then that Giyuu remembered a particular memory from his own time as a Mizunoto. Whenever a team-up occurred, there was a silent but nonetheless important vow of silence. Thoughts were thoughts, but words were uttered. Heard by the world. And in a profession that was as dangerous as being a demon slayer, luck was a big part of whether or not a newly established Mizunoto would survive the next mission given to them. Hence a three word combination had been popularized among the corpsmen.

It was Ruby that uttered those same three words.

"Don't jinx it, Yang!"

Which was why frankly, Giyuu wasn't even surprised by the giant Nevermore that suddenly appeared from the horizon. This one also a much bigger one than the one that Ruby had decided to hitch a ride on. With an ear-piercing screech, the Grimm began its dive towards their location.

"Yang?" Pyrrha questioned, her voice calm for the most part but still containing an edge that it had lacked before. "I believe this changes things, does it not?"

In that moment, a series of thoughts seemingly coursed through Yang Xiao Long's face- a series of thoughts that ended on an obvious conclusion as she opened her mouth to speak. After all, Giyuu knew the girl had the combat instinct to see it- the eight of them were surrounded by giant monsters, all of their weapons were raised, and they were prepared to fight till the end.

Ruby's scythe was raised and poised to attack. Giyuu's hand was settled on his sword. Pyrrha's weapons were raised, a faint black glow surrounding the two pieces of crimson colored steel. The two girls that had entered the scene were already prepared, the white-haired fighter surrounded by glyphs and the girl with the bow tie assisted by a pitch black clone. The hyperactive girl had a hammer raised and the quiet boy had two green contraptions in his hands. Yang herself was glowing with energy, her usual lilac eyes replaced with a bright red hue.

Which was why the next decision was the only natural conclusion she could have possibly made.

"We're skedaddling the hell outta here!"

Chapter Text

Ok so-

I really didn't want to post this but- after getting enough comments about when the next chapter was coming, it's come to a point where I *do* have to be honest with yall to some degree and explain what's *been happening* and what's most likely *going to happen.*

The thing is- I haven't lost 'interest' per say in writing this story, nor have I lost interest in writing in general. If I could spare the time and energy, I *would* try to actually write this thing out till the end.

That being said, real life is not so ideal. I started college this year and with that my workloads and responsibilities have effectively tripled across the board- I can count on one hand the times I've slept before 3:00 A.M. after the semester started.

So as much as I would like to constantly say "mhm the next chapter is going to going to be out someday! Just give it time" I can't in good conscience say anymore that that's the truth. It *might* be, but the chances are about as slim as they can get at this point. Because while I do enjoy writing, I have responsibilities and relationships irl that I do need to maintain and prioritize.

Because of this, while it's unfortunate, I'm going to say outright that unless a miracle happens, my work on this story is about as good as done. I don't want to give anyone any misleading ideas. (Or maybe I'm not and nobody actually expects me to update after months of radio silence lol, which would be understandable)

I am also doing the same to all of my other ongoings, because there are... an unfortunate number of them. (which might have compounded everything tbh)

But with that being said, there's still some more things to go through before I can really call it quits on this story- and I want to primarily leave it up to user-feedback. If you can spare the time, it would be greatly appreciated if you would comment down below whether or not you want to see this story being continued by someone else. (which honestly feels *weird* to ask but whatever ig)

And with that, I don't think I have much left to say here. I wish I could say that I'll post something on this site again, and I *want* to, but that possibility seems more and more unlikely with every passing day.

It's been fun yall, keep being great and thanks for reading the literary brain-sludge I (albeit-briefly) spewed on here. Even if I never come back to write, I'll always try to take 10 minutes off during lunch to read sometimes and reply to comments- and I think I'll always look back pretty fondly at it all :)

P.S: My discord is (i)ce#2764 in-case anyone wants to talk or hang out. Or scream at me, that works too. Can't really promise I'll be on very often though. ;_;

- ʕ•́ᴥ•̀ʔっ♡